The molecular formula for calcium oxalate salt is C2CaO4.
What is the formula for calcium oxalate salt?
Calcium oxalate is a chemical compound that forms a salt when calcium ions combine with oxalate ions. It is naturally found in many plants and is also a significant component of kidney stones in humans.
Molecular Structure and Properties
Understanding the formula helps in grasping its composition. Calcium oxalate consists of one calcium atom (Ca), two carbon atoms (C), and four oxygen atoms (O). The oxalate part (C2O4) is a dicarboxylate anion, which forms an ionic bond with the calcium cation (Ca²⁺).
The key properties of calcium oxalate are summarized below:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C2CaO4 |
| Average Mass | 128.096 |
| Monoisotopic Mass | 127.942249 |
| Identification ID | 30549 |
Significance and Occurrence
This salt is widely recognized for its diverse roles in biology and medicine:
- Kidney Stones: Calcium oxalate is the most prevalent component of kidney stones, which are hard deposits that form in the kidneys. These crystals can develop when there's an elevated concentration of calcium and oxalate in the urine.
- Plant Defense: Many plants produce calcium oxalate as a natural defense mechanism against herbivores. These often form sharp, needle-like crystals (raphides) that can cause irritation when ingested. Common examples of plants containing calcium oxalate include rhubarb, spinach, and taro.
- Food Industry: While spinach and rhubarb are consumed, their oxalate content is a factor for some individuals, as high intake can affect calcium absorption.
- Industrial Applications: Though not extensively used, calcium oxalate finds niche applications in areas such as ceramic manufacturing and as an analytical reagent in laboratories.
For more in-depth chemical and biological information, you can explore resources like PubChem's entry on Calcium Oxalate.
