Benefits & Drawbacks of Hard Water (WJEC GCSE Chemistry): Revision Note

Benefits & Drawbacks of Hard Water

• We have already discussed some of the drawbacks of hard water but there are advantages as well 

• The calcium compounds dissolved in hard water help to strengthen teeth and bones 

• They also help prevent heart and cardiovascular disease

• Some people prefer the taste of hard water and some brewers prefer it for brewing beer 

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The calcium ions in hard water help develop and maintain health bones and teeth

• On the other hand, hard water forms scale within appliances such as kettles which slows down the rate of heat transfer making them less efficient 

• Scale also causes pipes to 'fur up' and become completely blocked 

• It is harder to form a lather with hard water which results in more soap being wasted and can increase costs 

• Hard water forms scum with soap which has an unsightly appearance 

Summary of Advantages & Disadvantages