Whether you can touch calcium depends on the form of calcium you're referring to. While elemental calcium is a reactive metal, calcium compounds are commonly found and handled.
Elemental Calcium:
Elemental calcium is a silvery-white metal. While you could theoretically touch it, it's not advisable due to its reactivity. It reacts with moisture in the air and on your skin, and with oxygen.
Calcium Compounds:
Calcium is much more commonly encountered in compounds. Examples include:
- Calcium carbonate (CaCO3): This is the main component of limestone, chalk, and marble. It's also found in antacids and dietary supplements. Touching calcium carbonate is generally safe.
- Calcium chloride (CaCl2): This is a salt often used for de-icing roads and in various industrial processes. Skin and eye contact with calcium chloride can be hazardous. According to the reference material, eye contact can cause serious irritation and burns, and skin contact can cause burns and irritation, especially when the skin is moist.
- Calcium phosphate (Ca3(PO4)2): This is a major component of bone. It is generally safe to touch.
- Calcium sulfate (CaSO4): Also known as gypsum. Safe to touch.
In summary:
Touching elemental calcium is not advisable due to its reactivity. Touching common calcium compounds like calcium carbonate or calcium phosphate is generally safe. However, calcium chloride is an exception and should be handled with care to avoid skin and eye contact. Always check the specific calcium compound and its safety data sheet before handling.
