Barium oxide

Barium oxide is a chemical compound. Its chemical formula is BaO. It contains barium and oxide ions.

Properties

Barium oxide is a white solid. It dissolves in water to make barium hydroxide. It reacts with acids to make barium salts.

Preparation

Barium oxide is made by heating barium carbonate with carbon. This prevents barium peroxide from forming when it is heated. It can also be made by heating barium nitrate.

Uses

Barium oxide can be added to glass instead of lead(II) oxide. It is also used in cathode ray tubes. It can be used as a catalyst.

Safety

Barium oxide is very toxic when eaten.

See also

• Barium chloride
• Barium sulfate