The chemical compound is Plaster of Paris (POP), which is chemically known as calcium sulfate hemihydrate (CaSO₄·½H₂O).
Explanation (Additional Info):
- Plaster of Paris is a white powder that hardens when mixed with the right amount of water.
- The hardening process occurs due to the formation of calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO₄·2H₂O), which sets into a solid mass.
- POP is widely used in orthopedic surgeries for making casts to immobilize fractured bones and maintain joints in a fixed position until they heal.
- It is also used in construction, molding, and decorative work.