Multiple choice general knowledge

What is the basic chemical compound that natural pearls consist of?

  1. Calcium carbonate

  2. Sodium sulphate

  3. Aluminum carbonate

  4. Calcium fluoride
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Explanation

Natural pearls are primarily composed of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) in the form of aragonite crystals. This is the same compound found in seashells and coral. The mollusk secretes nacre (mother-of-pearl) to coat an irritant, which is mainly CaCO3. Sodium sulphate, aluminum carbonate, and calcium fluoride are not the primary components of pearls.

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