Introduction
In both inorganic and organic chemistry, the word "carbide" is used the most. Now, let's answer the most crucial question: what are carbides? Carbide is a chemical compound of carbon and metal or semimetal elements. It is in the form of ions. The ionic or covalent bond holds the carbide group to the metal or semimetal. The symbol for Carbide is CaC2. It shows that carbide ions have two carbon atoms in them.
Carbide Structure
Structure of Carbide
The carbide structure is a mixture of two carbon atoms joined together by three covalent bonds. There are two pi-bonds among these three covalent bonds. These pi-bonds are made when the p-orbitals touch each other on the side. The sigma bond is another one. It forms when the s-orbitals overlap head-on. The carbon in the carbide structure hybridised in a way called sp. There is one lone pair on each carbon atom.
Use of Carbide
Carbide comes into play in industrial processes and applications. Other kinds serve different purposes. For example, silicon, aluminium, and boron are all elements. They come from various industries.
Calcium Carbide
Calcium carbide is a substance that forms in a factory. Its chemical formula is CaC2. When you look at this formula, it's easy to see that one molecule of this forms up of one calcium atom and two carbon atoms.
You will notice that it is clear and solid when it is pure, like rock salt. Most of the time, this chemical compound is used to make acetylene. The calcium carbide uses are as follows below:
The use is to make polyvinyl chloride (PVC) because acetylene, from calcium carbide, can use as a raw material.
They are used to get rid of the sulfur in iron.
Also, as a ripening agent like ethylene, in both big-bang and bamboo cannons.
Silicon Carbide
SiC is the molecular formula for the following chemical compound. So, this molecular formula shows one carbon atom and one silicon atom. It is also known as carborundum.
Silicon Carbide uses in brakes, turbine bearings, and more. It is used in some types of seals and bearings. In the same way, the moissanite jewel, which looks like a diamond, grows large crystals in a lab.
Aluminum Carbide
It comes from making calcium carbide. It looks like it is either yellow or brown. It looks like crystals that can easily dissolve in water. Aluminium carbide uses to prevent damage from happening when added pressure over time.
Magnesium Carbide
With the help of water, magnesium carbide is used to make alkyne or propyne. Alkynes are compounds with two carbon atoms that are linked by three bonds. Alkynes like ethylene and propylene are used for business by adding water to metal carbide. So, magnesium carbide is called allylide, and carbides that can make alkynes are called allylic.
Conclusion
As discussed above, Carbide is a compound form of carbon. The word "carbide" usually means calcium carbide or tungsten carbide. Moreover, carbon carbide is a chemical compound of carbon and metal or semimetal parts. It can be in the form of ions. The number C2-2 stands for Carbide. It means that carbide ions are made up of two atoms of carbon.
FAQs on Let's Learn About Carbide Uses
1. How does calcium carbide work in carbide lamps?
In carbide lamps, calcium carbide plays an important role. When water drips on the Carbide, acetylene gas is made. Carbide lamps were still used as headlights on cars, motorcycles, and bicycles, but electric lamps soon took over.
2. What is Tungsten Carbide?
It looks like a fine grey powder. If you look at the molecular formula, you will see that it is made up of the same amount of tungsten and carbon. When we press it, it becomes a tough substance that can be used for different things. For example, this chemical compound is the only thing that can be used to make weapons that can break through armour.
3. What is Boron Carbide?
This is one of the most complex ceramic materials made from artificial materials. It has one atom of carbon and four atoms of boron. Also, it put it in tank armour, tools for cutting, security padlocks, and many other things. Because this compound reacts chemically, we also use it in nuclear reactors.
