Question

A white chemical compound becomes hard on mixing with proper quantity of water. It is also used in surgery to maintain joints in a fixed position. Name the chemical compound.

Answer 1

Plaster of Paris, or calcium sulphate hemi hydrate (CaSO₄.1/2H₂O), is a white compound that sets into a hard mass in about half an hour after wetting with water. This property of plaster of Paris is used in making casts for broken limbs in hospitals.