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Cobalt(II) oxide

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Identification
Molecular formula
CoO
CAS number
1307-96-6
IUPAC name
oxocobalt
State
State
Solid at room temperature, usually found as a powder or crystalline solid.
Melting point (Celsius)
1 935.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
2 208.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
0.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
0.00
General information
Molecular weight
74.93g/mol
Molar mass
74.9320g/mol
Density
6.1100g/cm3
Appearence
Cobalt(II) oxide appears as an olive-green to red crystalline solid that can sometimes be found as a gray or brown powder. The color variation is dependent on the specific conditions during formation, such as particle size and impurities.
Comment on solubility

Solubility of Oxocobalt

Oxocobalt, often represented as CoO or cobalt(II) oxide, exhibits specific solubility behaviors that are important to note in various contexts.

When considering its solubility:

  • In water: Oxocobalt is generally considered to be insoluble in water. This characteristic limits its direct applications in aqueous environments.
  • In acids: It shows a tendency to dissolve in acids, forming soluble cobalt salts. For instance, in hydrochloric acid, oxocobalt reacts to produce cobalt(II) chloride, which is soluble.
  • In bases: Similar to its reaction with acids, oxocobalt may also dissolve in concentrated bases, producing corresponding cobaltates.

In summary, while oxocobalt is insoluble in water, its behavior in acidic and basic conditions allows for a range of interactions and reactions, displaying its versatility as a chemical compound.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Oxocobalt

Oxocobalt, also known as cobalt oxide, is a fascinating compound that exhibits various unique properties and applications in different fields. Here are some intriguing aspects:

  • Versatile Catalyst: Oxocobalt is extensively used as a catalyst in chemical reactions, particularly in the synthesis of organic compounds. Its ability to facilitate reactions efficiently makes it valuable in the industrial sector.
  • Coloring Agent: Due to its vivid hues, oxocobalt finds application as a pigment in ceramics, glass, and paints. Its striking blue color, produced by cobalt ions, is often utilized to create vibrant artistic expressions.
  • Cobalt's Role in Biology: Cobalt is an essential trace element in the human diet, primarily found in vitamin B12. Oxocobalt compounds play a role in the biological functions associated with cobalt, underlining the element's importance in nutrition.
  • Environmental Considerations: Despite its industrial utility, oxocobalt has potential toxicity. Exposure to cobalt compounds must be managed carefully to prevent health risks, highlighting the balance between utility and safety in chemistry.
  • Historical Significance: Cobalt has been used for centuries, with ancient artisans recognizing the unique ability of cobalt minerals to impart color. This historical perspective shows the longstanding relationship between cobalt compounds and human creativity.

To sum up, oxocobalt is not merely a chemical entity; it serves as a bridge between industrial applications and biological significance. As one delves deeper into the properties and uses of this compound, one may find that its contributions stretch far beyond the laboratory.

Synonyms
Cobalt(II) oxide
1307-96-6
oxocobalt
Cobalt monoxide
COBALTOUS OXIDE
CCRIS 4229
HSDB 239
EINECS 215-154-6
UNII-V9X9644V7Q
CI 77322
C.I. 77322
EC 215-154-6
V9X9644V7Q
COBALTOUS MONOXIDE
Prepared cobalt oxide
DTXCID4030201
215-154-6
cobaltous oxide [hsdb]
cobaltous oxide [mi]
dtxsid6051649
un3288
Cobalt oxide (CoO)
Cobalt monooxide
Monocobalt oxide
Cobalt monoxide; Cobalt oxide; Cobalt(2+) oxide
MFCD00016031
CoO
Cobalt [II] oxide
Cobaltous(II) oxide
Cobalt(II) oxide, -325 mesh
AKOS015904051
FC55004
Cobalt (II) oxide nanopowder (<100 nm)
NS00112687
Cobalt(II) oxide, >=99.99% trace metals basis