Question

The diatomaceous earth is used for insulating boilers and steam pipes, because

• A. The diatomaceous earth is very cheap.
• B. It is a good conductor of heat.
• C. It is a bad conductor of heat.
• D. It is composed of calcium carbonate.

Answer 1

The correct option is C It is a bad conductor of heat.

Cells of Diatoms are surrounded by the cell wall, frustules, which has silica deposits. Shells of diatoms are highly resistant to decomposition due to the presence of silica and are deposited in ocean beds leading to the formation of the diatomaceous earth. Diatomaceous earth is used as a filtration aid, mild abrasive in products including metal polishes and toothpaste, mechanical insecticide, absorbent for liquids, matting agent for coatings, a stabilizing component of dynamite and a thermal insulator as it is a bad conductor of heat.