Which salt is used as a purgative?

$A$ compound $X$ on heating gives a colourless gas. The residue is dissolved in water to obtain $Y$. Excess $CO_2$ is bubbled through the aqueous solution of $Y$ and $Z$ is formed. $Z$ on gentle heating gives back $X$. The compound $X$ is:

The oxide,which is best soluble in $H_2O$ is

$(a)$ Give reactivity of alkaline earth metals towards air,water,dihydrogen and acids.
$(b)$ Explain reducing nature of alkaline earth metals.
$(c)$ Give chemical reaction of alkaline earth metals with liquid ammonia.

Gypsum is

The use of Plaster of Paris is ..........