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Cerium(III) oxalate

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Identification
Molecular formula
Ce2(C2O4)3
CAS number
13701-59-2
IUPAC name
cerium;oxalate
State
State

At room temperature, cerium(III) oxalate is a solid. It maintains its solid state characteristics under standard conditions of temperature and pressure.

Melting point (Celsius)
220.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
493.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
800.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
1 073.00
General information
Molecular weight
432.19g/mol
Molar mass
404.1600g/mol
Density
2.3400g/cm3
Appearence

The solid form of cerium(III) oxalate is typically a white crystalline powder. It can also appear as a white, fine particulate.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Cerium Oxalate

Cerium oxalate, represented by the chemical formula Cerie2(C2O4)3, exhibits some intriguing characteristics regarding its solubility. Understanding the solubility of this compound can provide valuable insights into its behavior in various environments. Here are some key points:

  • Solubility in Water: Cerium oxalate is generally considered to have limited solubility in water. This insolubility can be attributed to its ionic interactions and the formation of relatively stable complexes.
  • Influence of pH: The solubility can be affected significantly by the pH of the solution. In acidic conditions, the solubility may increase due to the protonation of oxalate ions.
  • Temperature Dependence: As with many compounds, solubility can also be temperature-dependent. An increase in temperature may enhance the solubility of cerium oxalate in certain solvents.
  • Formation of Complexes: Cerium ions can form various complexes with oxalate ions, which influences the solubility dynamics further.

In summary, the solubility of cerium oxalate is particularly low in water, with changes in pH and temperature potentially affecting its behavior. These general traits enable chemists to predict solubility aspects and guide practical applications.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Cerium Oxalate

Cerium oxalate, an intriguing compound of the rare earth element cerium, has garnered attention for its diverse applications and unique properties. Here are some fascinating insights about this compound:

  • Rare Earth Element: Cerium (Ce) is one of the most abundant rare earth elements and is crucial in various industries, particularly in catalysts, alloys, and as an additive in glass and ceramics.
  • Formation of the Compound: Cerium oxalate is created by the reaction of cerium salts with oxalic acid. This process often involves precipitation techniques, which lead to the formation of a crystalline solid.
  • Applications:
    • Catalysts: Utilized in catalytic converters in automobiles to reduce harmful emissions.
    • Electronics: Plays a role in the manufacturing of phosphors, which are essential for fluorescent and LED lighting.
    • Analytical Chemistry: Acts as a reagent for cerium analysis, aiding in the detection of cerium in geological samples.
  • Chemical Behavior: Cerium oxalate can undergo thermal decomposition, breaking down into cerium oxide and carbon dioxide upon heating, thus showcasing its potential in material synthesis studies.
  • Biocompatibility: Research is ongoing to explore its potential uses in medicinal chemistry, particularly in drug delivery systems and as a contrast agent in imaging techniques.

In summary, cerium oxalate exemplifies the intersection of chemistry and technology. Its unique characteristics not only contribute to scientific research but also illuminate pathways towards innovative applications in various fields. As scientists continue to explore the potential of rare earth compounds, cerium oxalate remains a compound of interest, bridging gaps between materials science and environmental sustainability.

Synonyms
139-42-4
Cerium, [.mu.-[ethanedioato(2-)-.kappa.O1,.kappa.O2':.kappa.O1',.kappa.O2]]bis[ethanedioato(2-)-.kappa.O1,.kappa.O2]di-
Cerium, (mu-(ethanedioato(2-)-kappaO1,kappaO2':kappaO1',kappaO2))bis(ethanedioato(2-)-kappaO1,kappaO2)di-