this post was submitted on 15 Jul 2026
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Science Memes

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[–] spectrums_coherence@piefed.social 11 points 4 days ago* (last edited 4 days ago) (1 children)

I wouldn't advise licking calciums:

The chemistry of calcium is that of a typical heavy alkaline earth metal. For example, calcium spontaneously reacts with water more quickly than magnesium but less quickly than strontium to produce calcium hydroxide and hydrogen gas. It also reacts with the oxygen and nitrogen in air to form a mixture of calcium oxide and calcium nitride.[14] When finely divided, it spontaneously burns in air to produce the nitride. Bulk calcium is less reactive: it quickly forms a hydration coating in moist air, but below 30% relative humidity it may be stored indefinitely at room temperature.[15]

Because calcium reacts exothermically with water and acids, calcium metal coming into contact with bodily moisture results in severe corrosive irritation.[59] When swallowed, calcium metal has the same effect on the mouth, oesophagus, and stomach, and can be fatal.[46] However, long-term exposure is not known to have distinct adverse effects.[59]

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calcium

Because of vigorous reaction of quicklime with water, quicklime causes severe irritation when inhaled or placed in contact with moist skin or eyes.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calcium_oxide

[–] Viking_Hippie@lemmy.dbzer0.com 11 points 4 days ago (2 children)

So.. I should lick it fast and then hide from the effects under a table?

[–] icelimit@lemmy.ml 4 points 4 days ago

Lick it then chug some vinegar

[–] Drewfro66@lemmygrad.ml 1 points 4 days ago

If it was a block of calcium, it would sizzle and burn a little but form a protective layer afterwards.

If you licked a pile of calcium powder, it would probably burn your tongue, stick to it, and then burn the inside of your mouth.