Many metal carbonates undergo thermal decomposition to
metal oxides and carbon dioxide, but some decompose
more easily (at a lower temperature) than others.
Calcium carbonate
decomposes at 825
degrees Celsius, Zinc
carbonate at 300 degrees
Celsius and copper
carbonate at 200 degrees
Celsius.
Uses of metal oxides include:
Zinc Oxide (ZnO) - rubber,
concrete, medicines,
cosmetics etc.