How Does Calcium Carbide React With Water To Produce Acetylene Gas?

Calcium carbide (CaC₂) is a vital chemical compound widely used in various industrial applications, especially for the production of acetylene gas (C₂H₂). The reaction between calcium carbide and water is a classic and fundamental chemical process that produces acetylene gas and calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂). This article provides a comprehensive explanation of how calcium carbide reacts with water, the chemical principles behind the reaction, the industrial production methods, safety considerations, and the applications of acetylene gas produced through this process.