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Magnesium sulfate

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Identification
Molecular formula
MgSO4
CAS number
7487-88-9
IUPAC name
magnesium;sulfate
State
State

Magnesium sulfate is a solid at room temperature. It is often encountered as the heptahydrate form, commonly known as Epsom salt, which readily dissolves in water.

Melting point (Celsius)
1 124.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
1 397.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
330.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
603.15
General information
Molecular weight
120.37g/mol
Molar mass
120.3660g/mol
Density
2.6600g/cm3
Appearence

Magnesium sulfate typically appears as a white crystalline solid. The crystals are odorless and have a bitter taste. The compound is hygroscopic, meaning it can absorb moisture from the air.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Magnesium Sulfate

Magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) showcases fascinating solubility characteristics that make it a vital compound in various applications:

  • Highly Soluble: Magnesium sulfate is known for its high solubility in water. At room temperature, about 35.7 g can dissolve in 100 mL of water.
  • Temperature Dependence: Its solubility increases with an increase in temperature, which leads to higher dissolution rates in hot water compared to cold.
  • Solid Forms: The most common form, known as Epsom salt, is also very soluble and is often used in gardening and as a remedy in baths.
  • Influence of pH: The solubility is relatively unaffected by pH, which means it remains soluble in neutral, acidic, and basic conditions, enhancing its versatility.

As MgSO4 dissolves, it dissociates into magnesium ions (Mg2+) and sulfate ions (SO42-), making it an excellent source of magnesium in aqueous solutions. This characteristic is beneficial in agriculture and medicine, as it readily supports biological processes.

In summary, magnesium sulfate's solubility is a defining feature that underscores its importance in both natural and industrial processes:

  1. High aqueous solubility
  2. Increased solubility with temperature
  3. Stable in various pH environments
  4. Easily accessible in different solid forms

Understanding the solubility of MgSO4 opens doors to its extensive use and applications in multiple fields.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Magnesium Sulfate

Magnesium sulfate, commonly known as Epsom salt, is a fascinating compound with a rich history and numerous applications in various fields. Here are some intriguing aspects:

  • Historical Significance: Discovered in the 17th century in the English town of Epsom, magnesium sulfate was originally used for its therapeutic properties, especially in soothing ailments related to the digestive system.
  • Health Benefits: It is renowned for its use in baths to relieve muscle soreness and inflammation. Many people find that soaking in Epsom salt can help with relaxation and stress relief.
  • Industrial Applications: Beyond personal care, magnesium sulfate also plays a crucial role in agriculture as a fertilizer. It provides essential magnesium and sulfur nutrients, promoting plant growth and improving crop yields.
  • Scientific Uses: This compound is extensively utilized in biochemical research, particularly in the study of molecular biology. It is often used to precipitate DNA and RNA, making it essential in genetic studies.
  • Environmental Impact: Magnesium sulfate can help in water treatment processes by aiding in the removal of heavy metals from wastewater, showcasing its potential in environmental conservation.

In conclusion, magnesium sulfate is much more than just a component of therapeutic baths; its diverse applications in health, agriculture, industry, and environmental science underscore its significance. As the saying goes, "From the earth to the bath, magnesium sulfate makes waves!"

Synonyms
MAGNESIUM SULFATE
Magnesium sulphate
Magnesium sulfate anhydrous
MgSO4
Magnesium sulfate (1:1)
Magnesiumsulfat
Sal Angalis
Sal De sedlitz
Tomix OT
Magnesium sulfate, anhydrous
Magnesiumsulfate
Sulfuric acid magnesium salt
OT-S (drying agent)
OT-S
Magnesii sulfas
Caswell No. 534
Sulfato de magnesio
Magnesium sulphate anhydrous
Arrosalt 2327
HSDB 664
Sulfuric acid, magnesium salt (1:1)
CHEBI:32599
Magnesium sulfate,anhydrous
UNII-ML30MJ2U7I
EINECS 231-298-2
ML30MJ2U7I
Magnesium sulphate, anhydrous
sulphate of magnesia
EPA Pesticide Chemical Code 050503
Magnesium Sulfate In Plastic Container
NSC 146179
CCRIS 8411
SN 00
EINECS 242-691-3
Magnesium sulfate in dextrose 5% in plastic container
AI3-02029
DTXSID6042105
EC 231-298-2
NSC-146179
Sulfate, Magnesium
SUPREP BOWEL PREP KIT COMPONENT MAGNESIUM SULFATE ANHYDROUS
MAGNESIUM SULFATE ANHYDROUS (II)
MAGNESIUM SULFATE ANHYDROUS [II]
231-298-2
MAGNESIUM SULFATE ANHYDROUS (USP MONOGRAPH)
MAGNESIUM SULFATE ANHYDROUS [USP MONOGRAPH]
Conclyte-Mg
Magnesium SO4
Magnesium Sulfate whiskers
MAGNESIUM (AS SULFATE)
MAGNESIUM SULFATE (II)
DE08037SAB
DTXCID4022105
MAGNESIUM SULPHATE, UNSPECIFIED
MAGNESIUM SULFATE (USP IMPURITY)
USEPA/OPP Pesticide Code: 050503
MAGNESIUM SULFATE, UNSPECIFIED FORM
TIS-U-SOL COMPONENT MAGNESIUM SULFATE
MAGNESIUM SULFATE COMPONENT OF TIS-U-SOL
MAGNESIUM SULFATE ANHYDROUS COMPONENT OF SUPREP BOWEL PREP KIT
nsc146179
unii-sk47b8698t
7487-88-9
magnesium;sulfate
Magnesium(II) sulfate
MFCD00011110
139939-75-6
Magnesium sulfate anhydrous
Magnesium sulfate dried
Magnesii sulfas; Magnesium sulfate; Magnesium sulphate; Mg-OK; OT-S
Sulfuric acid magnesium salt (VAN)
MgO4S
SDA 15-062-07
18939-43-0
EINECS 268-365-0
Epitope ID:158536
MAGNESIUM SULFATE [MI]
CHEMBL2021423
MAGNESIUM SULFATE [HSDB]
Sulfuric acid magnesiumsalt (1:1), hydrate (8CI,9CI)
Magnesium sulfate, anhydrous powder
Magnesium sulfate, anhydrous granular
AKOS015902894
DB00653
DA-55177
MAGNESIUM SULFATE,ANHYDROUS [VANDF]
M1890
NS00074383
MAGNESIUM SULFATE ANHYDROUS [ORANGE BOOK]
Q288266
SR-01000944338
SR-01000944338-1
Magnesium sulfate, anhydrous powder Trace metals grade, 99.95%
Magnesium sulfate, anhydrous granular Trace metals grade, 99.95%