Questions: Calcium carbonate frequently deposits in home water pipes. Should a homeowner expect more CaCO3 buildup in hot water pipes or cold water pipes? Briefly explain.

Calcium carbonate frequently deposits in home water pipes. Should a homeowner expect more CaCO3 buildup in hot water pipes or cold water pipes? Briefly explain.

Transcript text: Calcium carbonate frequently deposits in home water pipes. Should a homeowner expect more $\mathrm{CaCO}_{3}$ buildup in hot water pipes or cold water pipes? Briefly explain.

Solution

Solution Steps

Step 1: Understanding the Solubility of Calcium Carbonate

Calcium carbonate ($\mathrm{CaCO}_{3}$) is a compound that is less soluble in water as the temperature increases. This means that as water is heated, the solubility of calcium carbonate decreases, leading to more precipitation of the compound.

Step 2: Analyzing the Conditions in Hot and Cold Water Pipes

In hot water pipes, the water temperature is higher compared to cold water pipes. Due to the decreased solubility of calcium carbonate at higher temperatures, more $\mathrm{CaCO}_{3}$ is likely to precipitate out of the water and deposit on the walls of the pipes.

Step 3: Conclusion Based on Solubility and Temperature

Given that calcium carbonate is less soluble in hot water, a homeowner should expect more $\mathrm{CaCO}_{3}$ buildup in hot water pipes compared to cold water pipes.