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Epsom salt

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Identification
Molecular formula
MgSO4·7H2O
CAS number
10034-99-8
IUPAC name
magnesium;sulfate;heptahydrate
State
State

At room temperature, magnesium sulfate heptahydrate exists as a solid. It is highly soluble in water and can lose water upon heating, converting into an anhydrous form.

Melting point (Celsius)
150.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
423.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
330.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
603.15
General information
Molecular weight
246.48g/mol
Molar mass
246.4750g/mol
Density
1.6800g/cm3
Appearence

Magnesium sulfate heptahydrate appears as colorless or white crystalline solid. It is often available as small crystals or as a powder. The crystals are typically odorless, but they have a bitter taste.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Magnesium Sulfate Heptahydrate

Magnesium sulfate heptahydrate, commonly known as Epsom salt, has interesting solubility characteristics in water. Here are some key points to consider:

  • Highly soluble: Magnesium sulfate heptahydrate is known to have a high solubility in water, with approximately 350 g/L at 20°C.
  • Temperature dependence: Its solubility increases with temperature, making it easier to dissolve in hot water compared to cold.
  • Effect of pH: In neutral to slightly alkaline conditions, magnesium sulfate remains soluble; however, its solubility can be affected in strongly acidic or alkaline solutions.
  • Uses: Due to its excellent solubility, it is widely used in agriculture, as a laxative, and in bath products for its soothing properties.

As a *water-soluble* compound, magnesium sulfate heptahydrate exemplifies how solubility can vary based on physical conditions, significantly impacting its applications and effectiveness in various settings.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Magnesium Sulfate Heptahydrate

Magnesium sulfate heptahydrate, often recognized by its common name *Epsom salt*, has piqued the interest of both scientists and enthusiasts in various fields due to its fascinating properties and diverse applications. Here are some engaging aspects of this remarkable compound:

  • Natural Occurrence: Found in mineral springs, this compound was first discovered in Epsom, England—hence its name. It naturally forms through the evaporation of seawater.
  • Uses in Agriculture: Magnesium sulfate heptahydrate is a vital source of magnesium and sulfur for plants, making it a popular supplement used in agriculture to enhance soil fertility.
  • Therapeutic Benefits: Many people use Epsom salt for its purported health benefits. Soaking in a bath with magnesium sulfate is said to aid in muscle relaxation and stress relief. As a result, it has become a common ingredient in home remedies.
  • Industrial Applications: Beyond agriculture and wellness, this compound plays a crucial role in various industrial processes, including the manufacturing of textiles and paper products.
  • Cryoprotectant Properties: Magnesium sulfate heptahydrate is employed as a cryoprotectant, helping to preserve biological samples during freezing and thawing processes.
  • Chemical Synthesis: This compound serves as a dehydrating agent in chemical reactions, showcasing its versatility in the laboratory setting.

In summary, magnesium sulfate heptahydrate is more than just a simple compound; it plays significant roles in agriculture, health, and industry. Its multifaceted nature continues to inspire research and innovation, making it an exciting subject for scientists and chemistry students alike.

Synonyms
Magnesium sulfate heptahydrate
Epsom salt
magnesium sulphate heptahydrate
Magnesia sulphurica
Magnesium sulfate (1:1) heptahydrate
MgSO4.7H2O
Epsom salt(heptahydrate)
Bitter salt
MgSO4*7H2O
SK47B8698T
Magnesii sulfatis heptahydras
sulfuric acid magnesium salt heptahydrate
CHEBI:31795
magnesium sulfate--water (1/7)
E-518(MAGNESIUM SULFATE HEPTAHYDRATE)
MAGNESIUM SULPHATE (1:1) HEPTAHYDRATE
INS-518(MAGNESIUM SULFATE HEPTAHYDRATE)
INS NO.518(MAGNESIUM SULFATE HEPTAHYDRATE)
MAGNESIUM SULFATE HEPTAHYDRATE (EP IMPURITY)
MAGNESIUM SULFATE HEPTAHYDRATE (EP MONOGRAPH)
MAGNESIUM SULFATE HEPTAHYDRATE [EP IMPURITY]
MAGNESIUM SULFATE HEPTAHYDRATE [EP MONOGRAPH]
MAGNESIUM SULFATE HEPTAHYDRATE (USP MONOGRAPH)
MAGNESIUM SULFATE HEPTAHYDRATE [USP MONOGRAPH]
MgSO4(H2O)7
10034-99-8
magnesium;sulfate;heptahydrate
Sulfuric acid, magnesium salt, hydrate (1:1:7)
MFCD00149785
Sulfuric acid magnesium salt (1:1), heptahydrate
Epsomite
Magnesium sulfate [USAN:JAN]
Bittersalz
Epsomite (Mg(SO4).7H20)
Magnesium sulfate heptahydrate (MgSO4.7H2O)
MAGNESIUMSULFATEHEPTAHYDRATE
Sulfuric acid, magnesium salt (1:1), heptahydrate
Conclyte-Mg (TN)
Magnesium sulfate (USP)
MAGNESIUM(II), SULFATE, HEPTAHYDRATE
SCHEMBL840
Magnesium sufate heptahydrate
EPSOM SALT [WHO-IP]
CHEMBL3989857
DTXSID5040544
MAGNESIA SULPHURICA [HPUS]
Magnesium sulfate hydrate (JP17)
AKOS015903838
FM39296
MAGNESIUM SULFATE HYDRATE [JAN]
Magnesium sulfate heptahydrate ACS grade
14457-55-7
MAGNESIUM SULFATE HEPTAHYDRATE [MI]
DB-297725
NS00076332
D01108
MAGNESIUM SULFATE HEPTAHYDRATE [WHO-DD]
MAGNESII SULFATIS HEPTAHYDRAS [WHO-IP LATIN]
Magnesium sulfate heptahydrate, Cell Culture Reagent
Q15628528
Magnesium sulfate heptahydrate, meets the specifications of Ph. Eur., USP, BP