Calcium vs. Calcium Carbonate: What's the Difference?
Edited by Huma Saeed || By Sumera Saeed || Published on November 18, 2023
Calcium is a chemical element with the symbol Ca, while calcium carbonate is a compound made up of calcium, carbon, and oxygen with the formula CaCO₃.
Key Differences
Calcium is an essential chemical element found in various foods, vital for maintaining bone health and carrying out numerous body functions. Calcium carbonate, on the other hand, is a naturally occurring compound derived from calcium, often found in rocks and used in antacids and dietary supplements.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 18, 2023
While calcium serves as an important ion in our body, participating in muscle function, nerve transmission, and intracellular signaling, calcium carbonate is often used to supplement the intake of calcium, especially when natural dietary consumption is inadequate.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 18, 2023
Calcium can be found in various forms, such as calcium citrate, calcium lactate, and calcium gluconate, based on the substance it's combined with. Calcium carbonate is one such compound, recognized for its high calcium content and its utility in products like chalk, lime, and limestone.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 18, 2023
The consumption of calcium is vital for individuals of all ages, ensuring healthy bones and teeth. Calcium carbonate serves as a common source of calcium supplementation, beneficial for those who might not get enough calcium from their diet.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 18, 2023
Calcium plays a pivotal role in coagulation and is a significant component of our bones and teeth. Calcium carbonate, being alkaline, is used to neutralize acidic conditions in soils and water and is a primary component of many shells and structures of marine organisms.
Janet White
Nov 18, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Primary Use
Vital for bone health, muscle function, nerve transmission
Dietary supplement, antacid, component in rocks
Sumera Saeed
Nov 18, 2023
Occurrence
Found in various compounds and foods
Naturally found in the form of rocks like limestone
Sumera Saeed
Nov 18, 2023
Relation
Element that is part of various compounds
One specific compound containing calcium, carbon, and oxygen
Sumera Saeed
Nov 18, 2023
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Calcium and Calcium Carbonate Definitions
Calcium
A chemical element with the symbol Ca and atomic number 20.
Milk is a good source of calcium.
Huma Saeed
Nov 01, 2023
Calcium Carbonate
A source of calcium used in dietary supplements.
Some people take calcium carbonate tablets to supplement their dietary calcium intake.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 01, 2023
Calcium
A soft, gray, alkaline earth metal.
Calcium is essential for building strong bones.
Janet White
Nov 01, 2023
Calcium Carbonate
A compound with the chemical formula CaCO₃.
The main component of eggshells is calcium carbonate.
Huma Saeed
Nov 01, 2023
Calcium
An essential nutrient for living organisms.
Calcium deficiency can lead to weak bones.
Harlon Moss
Nov 01, 2023
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Calcium Carbonate
A base that can neutralize acids.
Calcium carbonate is used to counteract overly acidic soil.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 01, 2023
Calcium
A cation that plays a crucial role in biological processes.
Calcium ions are vital for muscle contraction.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 01, 2023
Calcium Carbonate
A primary component in many marine organism shells.
Coral reefs are largely made up of calcium carbonate.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 01, 2023
Calcium
A metal used in various industrial processes.
Calcium is used as a reducing agent in the extraction of other metals.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 01, 2023
Calcium Carbonate
A white, chalky compound that occurs naturally in limestone.
Calcium carbonate is used in antacids to relieve heartburn.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 01, 2023
Calcium
A silvery, moderately hard alkaline-earth metal that constitutes approximately 3.6 percent of the earth's crust and is a basic component of most animals and plants. It occurs naturally in limestone, gypsum, and fluorite, and its compounds are used to make plaster, quicklime, Portland cement, and metallurgic and electronic materials. Atomic number 20; atomic weight 40.08; melting point 842°C; boiling point 1,484°C; specific gravity 1.54; valence 2. See Periodic Table.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 11, 2023
Calcium
The chemical element (Symbol Ca), with an atomic number 20. It is a soft, silvery-white alkaline earth metal which occurs naturally as carbonate in limestone and as silicate in many rocks.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 11, 2023
Calcium
An elementary substance; a metal which combined with oxygen forms lime. It is of a pale yellow color, tenacious, and malleable. It is a member of the alkaline earth group of elements. Atomic weight 40. Symbol Ca.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 11, 2023
Calcium
A white metallic element that burns with a brilliant light; the fifth most abundant element in the earth's crust; an important component of most plants and animals
Sumera Saeed
Oct 11, 2023
FAQs
Is calcium carbonate a natural substance?
Yes, calcium carbonate naturally occurs in substances like limestone.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 18, 2023
Can you get calcium from calcium carbonate supplements?
Yes, calcium carbonate supplements are a common source of calcium intake.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 18, 2023
What is calcium primarily used for in the body?
Calcium is primarily used for bone formation and maintaining bone strength.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 18, 2023
How is calcium carbonate different from calcium?
Calcium is a chemical element, while calcium carbonate is a compound containing calcium, carbon, and oxygen.
Huma Saeed
Nov 18, 2023
How does calcium benefit muscles?
Calcium plays a pivotal role in muscle contraction and relaxation.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 18, 2023
Why is calcium carbonate used in agriculture?
It's used to neutralize acidic soil, enhancing soil quality.
Harlon Moss
Nov 18, 2023
Why might someone take a calcium carbonate antacid?
Calcium carbonate antacids can help neutralize stomach acid and relieve heartburn.
Janet White
Nov 18, 2023
What foods are rich in calcium?
Foods like milk, cheese, yogurt, and leafy greens are rich in calcium.
Sara Rehman
Nov 18, 2023
What is the role of calcium in nerve function?
Calcium aids in transmitting signals between nerve cells.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 18, 2023
Are there side effects to consuming too much calcium carbonate?
Yes, excessive consumption can lead to kidney stones, constipation, and impaired absorption of other minerals.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 18, 2023
Can you find calcium carbonate in everyday products?
Yes, it's found in antacids, dietary supplements, and even some baking powders.
Harlon Moss
Nov 18, 2023
Does calcium carbonate dissolve in water?
Calcium carbonate is poorly soluble in water but can dissolve in acid.
Janet White
Nov 18, 2023
Why is calcium important for children?
Calcium is crucial for the growth and development of strong bones in children.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 18, 2023
Can calcium carbonate be used in food?
Yes, it's often used as a food additive or preservative.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 18, 2023
How do our bodies absorb calcium?
The body absorbs calcium in the intestines, aided by vitamin D.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 18, 2023
Where is calcium carbonate most commonly found in nature?
It's most commonly found in rocks like limestone and marble.
Harlon Moss
Nov 18, 2023
Are there other compounds of calcium besides calcium carbonate?
Yes, examples include calcium citrate, calcium phosphate, and calcium chloride.
Janet White
Nov 18, 2023
Why is calcium carbonate added to toothpaste?
It's used as a mild abrasive to help remove plaque and stains.
Sara Rehman
Nov 18, 2023
Is calcium a metal or non-metal?
Calcium is a metal, specifically an alkaline earth metal.
Sara Rehman
Nov 18, 2023
What happens if the body has too little calcium?
A deficiency can lead to weakened bones, muscle cramps, and in severe cases, rickets.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 18, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Huma SaeedHuma is a renowned researcher acclaimed for her innovative work in Difference Wiki. Her dedication has led to key breakthroughs, establishing her prominence in academia. Her contributions continually inspire and guide her field.
