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What is the chemical composition of ivory?

added 2 years ago by pinakigoswami

2 Comments

Ivory tusks and teeth consist of an inner pulp cavity surrounded by dentine- a combination of connective tissues that have minerals and collagen properties. Found in tusks of elephants and teeth of mammals such as the hippopotamus, walrus, boar, sperm and killer whale, ivory forms layers. It gets strength and rigidity from inorganic components, namely mineralised tissues. The organic element, collagen, helps in the growth and repair of ivory, which has no blood vessles, is porous and absorbs and releases moisture.

published 2 years ago

pinakigoswami

1121 points

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As an Engineer and a Chemist in my past, I like this question. It's something that I think I've been wanting to know, at the back of my mind, but hadn't realized it. Thanks. I think Askables needs more science related articles and questions :-)

added 2 years ago

scott

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Thanks scott for your valuable comments. Please read my other articles and I think it will will also help you.

 

pinakigoswami

added 2 years ago

pinakigoswami

1121 points



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pinakigoswami

1121 points

Freelance writer and want to know something and share some knowledge with my friends.

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