Eggshells contain calcium carbonate, which is a base. The calcium carbonate in the eggshell reacts with the acetic acid in the vinegar to form a water-soluable compound, calcium acetate, and carbon dioxide (CO2) gas. This reaction dissolves the eggshell, but leaves the inner membrane intact, creating a naked egg.

What dissolves an egg shell?

Eggshells contain calcium carbonate, which is a base. The calcium carbonate in the eggshell reacts with the acetic acid in the vinegar to form a water-soluable compound, calcium acetate, and carbon dioxide (CO2) gas. This reaction dissolves the eggshell, but leaves the inner membrane intact, creating a naked egg.

How long does it take to decompose eggshells?

How long does it take for an eggshell to decompose? Eggshells take more than 3 years to break down. In an eggshell decomposition study, the outer shell was found intact after a year underground. On the same, and after three years under the soil, there are no signs of decomposition.