Temporary Hardness vs Permanent Hardness — Difference (with Table)
Temporary Hardness vs Permanent Hardness compared side by side — a 6-row comparison table and 4 key points. Class 10-11 Chemistry, free and no sign-up.
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TL;DR: Temporary Hardness vs Permanent Hardness compared side by side — a 6-row comparison table and 4 key points. Class 10-11 Chemistry, free and no sign-up…
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The main difference between Temporary Hardness and Permanent Hardness: Temporary hardness is caused by dissolved bicarbonates of calcium and magnesium and can be removed by boiling. Permanent hardness is caused by sulfates and
Temporary Hardness vs Permanent Hardness — Comparison Table
| Basis | Temporary Hardness | Permanent Hardness |
|---|---|---|
| Cause | Calcium and magnesium bicarbonates | Calcium and magnesium sulfates and chlorides |
| Removal by Boiling | Removed by boiling water | Cannot be removed by boiling |
| Chemical Reaction | Bicarbonates decompose when heated | Sulfates and chlorides remain unchanged |
| Removal Method | Boiling or adding lime water | Adding soda ash or ion exchange resins |
| Scale in Kettles | Forms scales during boiling | Remains dissolved; no obvious scaling |
| Example | Ca(HCO3)2 and Mg(HCO3)2 in water | CaSO4 and MgCl2 in water |
Key Points
- Temporary hardness is easier and cheaper to remove than permanent hardness
- Hard water often contains both types of hardness
- Lime water addition converts temporary hardness to insoluble carbonates
- Ion exchange resins are commonly used to remove both types of hardness