Lime cycle

The lime cycle describes how calcium carbonate (lime) is processed from mining to use. It starts with extracting limestone from quarries. The limestone is then heated in a kiln, which causes it to decompose, releasing carbon dioxide and leaving behind quicklime (calcium oxide). The quicklime can be mixed with water to produce slaked lime (calcium hydroxide) for various applications. When used, lime reacts with acids or other compounds, and eventually, it can return to the environment as calcium carbonate through natural processes. This cycle highlights lime's sustainability in industrial and environmental contexts.