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Q82 (CDS-I/2005) Science & Technology › Basic Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) › Applied everyday chemistry Answer Verified

What is the chemical name of talc from which the talcum powder is made ?

Result
Your answer: —  Â·  Correct: B
Explanation

Talc is a naturally occurring mineral that serves as the primary ingredient in talcum powder [1]. Chemically, it is identified as hydrous magnesium silicate, with the chemical formula Mg3Si4O10(OH)2 [t1]. It is composed of magnesium, silicon, oxygen, and hydrogen [t1][t2]. In the cosmetics industry, talc is valued for its ability to absorb moisture, prevent caking, and improve the texture of products like baby powder and facial makeup [t1][t2]. While other minerals like calcium sulphate (gypsum) are used in industries such as cement and fertilizers, they do not constitute talc [c3][c5]. Talc's unique properties, such as being the softest known mineral, make it ideal for personal care applications where it reduces friction and prevents rashes [t2][t3].

Sources

  1. [1] Science ,Class VIII . NCERT(Revised ed 2025) > Chapter 8: Nature of Matter: Elements, Compounds, and Mixtures > 8.5 What Are Minerals? > p. 129
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