Definition and Uses :
Calcium nitrate, also called Norgessalpeter (Norwegian salt meter), is an inorganic compound with the formula Ca (NO 3 ) 2. This colorless salt absorbs moisture from the air and is usually found as the tetrahydrate. It is used primarily as an ingredient in fertilizers, but has other applications. Nitrocalcite is the name of a mineral that is a hydrated calcium nitrate that forms an efflorescence where fertilizer comes into contact with concrete or limestone in a dry environment such as barns or caves. Several related salts are known, such as calcium ammonium nitrate decahydrate and calcium potassium nitrate decahydrate.