How is Plaster of Paris chemically different from gypsum? How may these be inter converted? Write one use of Plaster of Paris.
Plaster of Paris is different from Gypsum as it is prepared from heating gypsum. Plaster of Paris is a major constituent of surgical bandages used for setting fractured bones. Before applying on fractured bone, it is made wet with water and as a result of hydration it changes into gypsum which keeps the bones in right position. These may be interconverted by the reaction.
The uses of Plaster of Paris are:
(i) It is used for making moulds or casts for toys, pottery, ceramics etc.
(ii) In surgical bandages for setting fractured bones.