Cupric Carbonate Extra Pure
SHORT DESCRIPTION
Cupric Carbonate Extra Pure is a fine, green, high-purity compound used in laboratories for inorganic synthesis, analytical chemistry, and educational demonstrations. It serves as a reliable source of copper ions in reactions and decomposes upon heating to form copper oxide, making it useful for studying thermal decomposition. In qualitative analysis, it is employed to observe characteristic reactions of copper salts. Its extra pure grade ensures minimal interference from impurities, supporting accurate experimental outcomes. Cupric carbonate should be handled in a dry environment and stored in tightly sealed containers to prevent degradation and maintain stability.
USES
Primary Uses
- Precursor for Copper Compounds
- Commonly used to prepare other copper(II) salts (like CuCl₂, Cu(NO₃)₂) via reaction with various acids.
- Ideal for inorganic synthesis training.
- Qualitative Inorganic Analysis
- Helps students observe typical copper ion reactions—green-blue color is visually distinctive.
- Demonstrates decomposition and acid reactions in teaching labs.
- Catalyst Precursor or Component
- Converted to CuO (cupric oxide) by heating, which is then used as a catalyst in redox and organic reactions.
- Pigment Preparation Studies
- Historically used in pigments (verdigris) and now studied in labs exploring historical art materials.
Secondary Uses
- Thermal Decomposition Experiments
- Upon heating, it decomposes to CuO and COâ‚‚, making it useful for thermal stability demonstrations and stoichiometry exercises.
- COâ‚‚ Absorption and Gas Evolution Studies
- Reacts with acids to release carbon dioxide gas, ideal for gas collection experiments.
- Nanomaterial Synthesis
- Acts as a precursor in nano copper oxide or copper carbonate material synthesis, especially in materials science labs.
- Demonstration of Metal Carbonate Behavior
- Used to show characteristic properties of transition metal carbonates vs alkali/alkaline earth counterparts.
KEY ATTRIBUTES
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name: Cupric Carbonate
- Common Name: Copper(II) Carbonate
- CAS Number: 12069-69-1 (often listed as basic copper carbonate)
- Chemical Formula: CuCO₃·Cu(OH)₂ (basic form)
- Molar Mass: ~221.11 g/mol
- Grade: Extra Pure (Laboratory/Reagent grade)
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
- Appearance: Green to bluish-green fine powder
- Odor: Odorless
- Solubility:
- Insoluble in water
- Soluble in acids with effervescence (due to COâ‚‚ release)
- Decomposition: Releases COâ‚‚ and forms copper oxide on heating
- pH (suspension): Slightly basic
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification:
- H302: Harmful if swallowed
- H315: Causes skin irritation
- H319: Causes serious eye irritation
- H410: Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects
- NFPA Ratings:
- Health: 2
- Flammability: 0
- Reactivity: 0
- First Aid Measures:
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air and seek medical attention if symptoms persist
- Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water
- Eye Contact: Rinse with water for several minutes; seek medical advice
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth; do not induce vomiting unless instructed
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions:
- Store in a tightly sealed container
- Keep in a dry, cool, well-ventilated area
- Avoid exposure to strong acids or reducing agents
- Handling Advice:
- Use gloves, lab coat, and safety goggles
- Handle in a fume hood if dust is likely to become airborne
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- EINECS Number: 235-113-6
- UN Number: Not regulated for transport
- REACH Status: Registered
6. Applications in Laboratory
- Primary Use:
- Qualitative and quantitative analysis of copper compounds
- Other Uses:
- Reagent in inorganic synthesis
- Precursor to other copper salts
- Pigment research and corrosion studies
- Educational demonstrations on carbonate decomposition and metal salt behavior
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
- PPE Required:
- Lab coat
- Nitrile gloves
- Safety goggles
- Dust mask if handling in powder form
- Handling:
- Avoid creating or breathing dust
- Do not ingest or allow skin/eye contact
- Work in a fume hood when heating or reacting with acids
- Storage:
- Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place
- Keep container tightly closed
- Protect from moisture and incompatible substances (e.g., acids)
FIRST AID MEASURES
- Inhalation:
- Move to fresh air
- Seek medical attention if symptoms develop
- Skin Contact:
- Wash with soap and water
- Remove contaminated clothing
- Eye Contact:
- Rinse with plenty of water for 15 minutes
- Get medical help if irritation persists
- Ingestion:
- Rinse mouth thoroughly
- Do not induce vomiting
- Seek immediate medical attention
FIREFIGHTING MEASURES
- Flammability: Non-flammable
- Hazards: Decomposes under fire to release toxic fumes (copper oxides, COâ‚‚)
- Extinguishing Media:
- Use COâ‚‚, dry chemical powder, or foam
- Avoid using water directly on powder fires
- Protection for Firefighters:
- Use self-contained breathing apparatus
- Wear full protective gear

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