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Zinc (Zn)

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Identification
Molecular formula
Zn
CAS number
7440-66-6
IUPAC name
boric acid;2-hydroxybenzoic acid;zinc
State
State

At room temperature, zinc is a solid metal.

Melting point (Celsius)
419.50
Melting point (Kelvin)
692.65
Boiling point (Celsius)
907.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
1 180.00
General information
Molecular weight
65.38g/mol
Molar mass
65.3800g/mol
Density
7.1400g/cm3
Appearence

Zinc is a bluish-white, lustrous metal. It is brittle at ambient temperatures but becomes malleable between 100 and 150°C. It is often used as a protective coating for other metals to prevent rusting.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Boric Acid, 2-Hydroxybenzoic Acid, and Zinc

The solubility of the compounds boric acid (H3BO3), 2-hydroxybenzoic acid (C7H6O3), and zinc (Zn) showcases intriguing characteristics:

  • Boric Acid (H3BO3):
    • Solubility in water is relatively low, approximately 4.7 g/100 mL at room temperature.
    • It is better soluble in alkaline solutions than in pure water.
    • Solubility increases with temperature, making it more effective in hot solutions.
  • 2-Hydroxybenzoic Acid (C7H6O3):
    • Also known as salicylic acid, it displays moderate solubility in water, around 1.9 g/100 mL at room temperature.
    • Soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol and acetone.
    • Its solubility is enhanced in acidic or basic environments due to the ionization of the acidic functional group.
  • Zinc (Zn):
    • Zinc does not dissolve in water directly; however, it reacts with acids to produce zinc salts.
    • In water, zinc compounds like zinc sulfate and zinc chloride are quite soluble.
    • When exposed to moisture, zinc can form protective layers of zinc oxide which may influence its apparent solubility.

In summary, the solubility profiles of these compounds vary significantly based on environmental conditions and chemical structure. Understanding these properties is essential for various applications in chemistry.

Interesting facts

Boric Acid

Boric acid, a compound formed from boron, is well-known for its versatile applications across various fields. Here are some intriguing facts about this chemical:

  • Uses in Medicine: Boric acid is commonly used as an antiseptic and antimicrobial agent, particularly in ophthalmic solutions. It can help treat minor eye infections.
  • Pest Control: Known for its insecticidal properties, boric acid is often employed in pest control to eliminate termites, cockroaches, and ants, proving effective without the use of harmful chemicals.
  • pH Buffering: In laboratory settings, boric acid plays a crucial role as a pH buffer, maintaining stable pH levels in various chemical reactions.

As the H₃BO₃ molecular structure suggests, boric acid is a weak acid. Its unique properties make it valuable in the production of glass, ceramics, and fertilizers. Often, it is found in household products, reinforcing its relevance in everyday life.

2-Hydroxybenzoic Acid

Commonly known as salicylic acid, 2-hydroxybenzoic acid is a significant compound with a rich history. Here’s what makes it particularly noteworthy:

  • Historical Uses: Salicylic acid was originally derived from willow bark, which was used for centuries to alleviate pain and reduce fevers, a precursor to modern aspirin.
  • Skin Care: It’s widely recognized in dermatology for its application in treating acne and psoriasis due to its ability to exfoliate and unclog pores.
  • Plant Growth Regulation: Salicylic acid plays a role as a plant hormone, affecting growth and response to stress, making it essential in agricultural practices.

The formula C₇H₆O₃ reveals its aromatic characteristics, enabling it to participate in various chemical reactions, including esterification. Its significance in both medicinal and agricultural fields showcases its diverse impact.

Zinc

Zinc is a trace element that plays a vital role in numerous biological functions. Here are some engaging insights about this essential metal:

  • Biological Importance: Zinc is crucial for enzyme function, immune response, and DNA synthesis. It's instrumental in over 300 enzymatic reactions within the human body.
  • Grandfather of Metals: Often referred to as the "grandfather of metals," zinc has been used for thousands of years in applications from coinage to galvanizing iron.
  • Corrosion Resistance: Zinc's ability to resist corrosion makes it invaluable in protecting steel structures, which is vital for infrastructure and construction.

The presence of zinc as Zn within various compounds demonstrates its importance not only in chemistry but also in health and industry. Understanding its properties has led to advancements in material science and medical research.