Answer:
Step-by-step explanation:
A lime kiln is a device used to produce lime, which is a material used in various industries such as construction and agriculture. It is a furnace-like structure that is designed to heat limestone (calcium carbonate) to high temperatures in order to drive off carbon dioxide and produce lime (calcium oxide).
Here is a step-by-step explanation of the reaction that occurs in a lime kiln:
1. Heating:
Limestone, which is mainly composed of calcium carbonate, is fed into the lime kiln. The kiln is typically a large, cylindrical furnace that is lined with firebricks. Heat is generated by burning fuels such as coal, natural gas, or oil.
2. Calcination:
As the limestone is heated, it undergoes a chemical reaction called calcination. During calcination, the calcium carbonate in the limestone decomposes into calcium oxide (quicklime) and carbon dioxide gas (CO2). The equation for this reaction is:
⇒ CaCO3 (limestone) -> CaO (quicklime) + CO2 (carbon dioxide).
3. Lime production:
The quicklime produced in the lime kiln is then extracted from the kiln and processed further. It is important to note that quicklime is highly reactive and should be handled with caution due to its caustic properties.
Quicklime can be used for various purposes, including as a building material, in the production of steel, as a soil conditioner, and in the chemical industry.
In summary, a lime kiln is a furnace used to heat limestone to produce quicklime through the process of calcination. This chemical reaction converts calcium carbonate into calcium oxide and carbon dioxide gas. The quicklime produced can be used for various applications