Stalactites-the long, icicle-like formations that hang from the ceilings of caves-are formed from recrystallizing minerals such as calcite (calcium carbonate). The K_sp of calcium carbonate is 4.5 * 10^-⁹. What is the minimum volume of dripping water saturated with calcium carbonate that would be required to form a small stalactite that had a mass of 1.000 kg?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

To solve this problem, we need to use the formula:
mass = density x volume
We are given the density of calcium carbonate (4.5 x 10^-10 kg/L) and the mass of the stalactite (1.000 kg). We need to find the volume of dripping water saturated with calcium carbonate that would be required to form the stalactite.

Rearranging the formula, we get:
volume = mass / density

Plugging in the values, we get:
volume = 1.000 kg / 4.5 x 10^-10 kg/L
volume = 2.222 x 10^9 L

However, the answer choices are all in scientific notation, so we need to convert our answer to scientific notation as well. We can express 2.222 x 10^9 as 2.22 x 10^9, which is equivalent.

Looking at the answer choices, the closest value to 2.22 x 10^9 is 1.5 x 10^15, which is answer choice B. Therefore, the answer is B.

Stalactites-The Long, Icicle-Like Formations That Hang from the Ceilings of Caves-Are