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Sulfur dioxide

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Identification
Molecular formula
SO2
CAS number
7446-09-5
IUPAC name
dioxido-oxo-thioxo-lambda6-sulfane
State
State

Sulfur dioxide is typically found as a gas at room temperature and atmospheric pressure. It is often used as a preservative and in winemaking.

Melting point (Celsius)
-72.70
Melting point (Kelvin)
200.45
Boiling point (Celsius)
-10.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
263.15
General information
Molecular weight
64.07g/mol
Molar mass
64.0660g/mol
Density
2.8274g/cm3
Appearence

Sulfur dioxide is a colorless gas with a pungent, irritating odor that is readily identifiable. It can appear as a liquid when under pressure in a container.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of dioxido-oxo-thioxo-lambda6-sulfane (SO2)

The solubility of dioxido-oxo-thioxo-lambda6-sulfane, more commonly known as sulfur dioxide (SO2), is quite interesting and displays several important characteristics.

Key Points on Solubility:

  • Gaseous State: At room temperature, sulfur dioxide is primarily a gas.
  • Solubility in Water: SO2 is soluble in water, with a solubility of around 0.1 g per 100 mL at 25 °C.
  • Formation of Acid: When dissolved, it reacts with water to form colorless sulfurous acid (H2SO3), enhancing its acidic properties.
  • Temperature Effect: Its solubility in water increases with decreasing temperature, demonstrating a typical gas solubility behavior.
  • Polar Nature: The polar nature of the SO2 molecule contributes significantly to its solubility in polar solvents.

It's fascinating to note that while sulfur dioxide is soluble in water, its role as an environmental pollutant emphasizes the need for understanding its solubility implications in not only industrial applications but also environmental contexts. The ability to form acids upon dissolution carries significant environmental consequences, especially in relation to acid rain formation.


In summary, the solubility of SO2 in water and its interaction with acidic properties are central to its behavior in various chemical processes, making it a compound of great interest in both chemistry and environmental science.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Dioxido-oxo-thioxo-lambda6-sulfane (Sulfur Dioxide)

Dioxido-oxo-thioxo-lambda6-sulfane, more commonly known as sulfur dioxide (SO2), is a fascinating chemical compound with significant implications in both natural and industrial contexts. Here are some intriguing facts about this compound:

  • Essential Role in the Atmosphere: Sulfur dioxide is a crucial player in the formation of acid rain. When it reacts with water vapor in the atmosphere, it forms sulfurous acid, which can have harmful effects on ecosystems.
  • Industrial Applications: It is widely used in the food industry as a preservative and antioxidant, particularly for dried fruits, wines, and certain beverages.
  • Environmental Impact: SO2 is a significant component of air pollution. Monitoring and regulating its levels is vital for protecting public health and preventing respiratory diseases.
  • Natural Occurrence: Sulfur dioxide is released during volcanic eruptions and by bushfires, showcasing its natural occurrence in the Earth's processes.
  • Biological Importance: A lesser-known fact is its role in cellular processes, as it acts as a signaling molecule in various biological systems.

Through these diverse aspects, sulfur dioxide demonstrates how a single compound can have both beneficial uses and environmental challenges. It serves as a reminder of the intricate balance in nature and the complexities of human interaction with chemistry.

As a science student or researcher, understanding SO2 can lead to insights into both ecological health and innovative industrial practices. Its multifaceted nature emphasizes the importance of responsible chemical management in both everyday life and large-scale applications.

Synonyms
thiosulfate
THIOSULFATE ION
Thiosulphate
Thiosulfate ion(2-)
thiosulfate(2-)
Thiosulfate (2-)
14383-50-7
Thiosulphate ion
UNII-LLT6XV39PY
LLT6XV39PY
Thiosulfate (S2O32-)
trioxidosulfidosulfate(2-)
THIOSULPHATE ION(2-)
CHEBI:16094
THIOSULPHATE (S2O32-)
S2O3(2-)
trioxido-1kappa(3)O-disulfate(S--S)(2-)
(SO3S)(2-)
[SO3S](2-)
sulfurothioate
Thiosulfates
DTXSID80932118
DHCDFWKWKRSZHF-UHFFFAOYSA-L
dioxido-oxo-sulfanylidene-lambda6-sulfane
Q410739