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Borate

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Identification
Molecular formula
B(OH)4-
CAS number
1303-96-4
IUPAC name
borate
State
State

In their usual state at room temperature, borates are solid compounds, reflecting their typical structure and properties.

Melting point (Celsius)
743.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
1 016.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
1 860.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
2 133.00
General information
Molecular weight
61.83g/mol
Molar mass
61.8330g/mol
Density
1.4794g/cm3
Appearence

Borates are typically white, crystalline or amorphous substances. They appear as fine powders or large crystals, and some forms can be transparent, whereas others are more translucent or opaque, depending on the specific type of borate compound.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Borates

Borates, which are salts or esters of boric acid, exhibit varying solubility characteristics depending on their specific composition and the counterions involved. Here are some noteworthy points regarding their solubility:

  • Water Solubility: Many borates, such as sodium borate (NaB(OH)4), are highly soluble in water, making them useful in a variety of applications including detergents and glass production.
  • Temperature Dependence: The solubility of borates can significantly increase with temperature. For instance, hot water usually dissolves larger amounts of borates compared to cold water.
  • pH Sensitivity: The solubility of borates can also be influenced by the pH of the solution. Borates tend to dissolve more readily in alkaline conditions.
  • Ion Interaction: The presence of other ions in solution can either enhance or impede the solubility of borates. For example, certain cations may form complexes that increase solubility.

In summary, while some borates are quite soluble, their solubility is not uniform and is influenced by various environmental factors. Understanding these aspects can help in their effective use across different chemical processes.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Borate

Borate compounds, primarily derived from boron, possess unique characteristics and diverse applications that make them noteworthy in the field of chemistry. Here are some intriguing aspects of borates:

  • Natural Occurrence: Borates are commonly found in nature, often in the form of minerals such as borax and kernite. These minerals are harvested for various industrial and domestic uses.
  • Versatile Applications: Borates are used in a plethora of applications, including:
    • Glass and Ceramics: Borates are critical in enhancing the durability and thermal resistance of glass products.
    • Textiles: They are utilized in fire-retardant treatments and as fungicides in the textile industry.
    • Fertilizers: Boron, derived from borates, is an essential micronutrient for plants, aiding in growth and development.
  • pH Buffering: Borate compounds serve as effective pH buffers in various chemical reactions, making them instrumental in maintaining stable pH levels in solutions.
  • Biocidal Properties: Some borate compounds exhibit antimicrobial properties, making them useful in products designed for pest control and wood preservation.
  • Research and Nanotechnology: Recent studies have explored the use of borates in the field of nanotechnology, where their unique properties might lead to advancements in materials science.

In conclusion, borates are not just simple compounds; they are essential players in multiple fields, from agriculture to technology. As scientists continue to explore their potential, the range of applications for borates is likely to expand even further.

Synonyms
trioxidoborate(3-)
14213-97-9
trioxoborate(3-) ion
trioxoborate(III) anion
CHEBI:22908
DTXSID20931362
(BO3)3-
11129-12-7
BO3(3-)
[BO3](3-)
(BO3)(3-)
DTXCID101360072
Borate
ortho-borate ion
BTBUEUYNUDRHOZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N
Q27109582