Question

Calamine contains

• A. Calcium oxide and zinc oxide
• B. Zinc oxide and ferric oxide
• C. Ferric oxide and silicon dioxide
• D. Silicon dioxide and titanium dioxide

Hint:

Calamine = Zinc Oxide + Ferric Oxide (for pink color).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Concept
Calamine is a topical protective agent used in dermatological preparations.

Step 2: Meaning
It is primarily composed of zinc oxide ($ZnO$) with a small addition of ferric oxide ($Fe_{2}O_{3}$).

Step 3: Analysis
The zinc oxide provides the antiseptic and protective properties, while the ferric oxide (usually about 0.5 percent) gives calamine its characteristic pink color.

Step 4: Conclusion
The combination of zinc oxide and ferric oxide defines the chemical composition of pharmaceutical-grade calamine.

Final Answer: (B)