Cadmium oxide facts for kids
Cadmium oxide is a chemical compound. It is made from two main parts: the metal cadmium and oxygen. Its chemical formula is CdO. This means one cadmium atom is joined with one oxygen atom.
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What is Cadmium Oxide Like?
Cadmium oxide can look different ways. It might be a clear, colorless powder. It can also be a brown powder or even red-brown crystals. No matter its form, it will dissolve if you put it in an acid. It is important to know that breathing in its dust can be harmful. In some ways, it acts like another common compound called zinc oxide.
How is Cadmium Oxide Made?
Making cadmium oxide is quite simple. One way is to burn cadmium metal in the air. Another way is to mix a special chemical called an alkali with any cadmium salt that can dissolve in water.
What is Cadmium Oxide Used For?
Cadmium oxide has several important uses:
- Electronics: It is used in electronics because it can let electricity pass through it while still being clear. This makes it useful for things like transparent screens.
- Colors: It helps create bright colors, especially for making yellow pigments like cadmium sulfide. These pigments are used in paints and plastics.
- Batteries: It is an important part of nickel-cadmium batteries, which are rechargeable batteries used in many devices.
- Coatings: It is also used in a process called electroplating. This is where a thin layer of cadmium is put onto other metals to protect them.
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See also
In Spanish: Óxido de cadmio para niños
