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Copper(I) oxide

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Identification
Molecular formula
Cu2O
CAS number
1317-39-1
IUPAC name
oxocopper
State
State
Copper(I) oxide is a solid at room temperature characterized by its distinct red color.
Melting point (Celsius)
1 235.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
1 508.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
1 800.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
2 073.00
General information
Molecular weight
143.09g/mol
Molar mass
143.0910g/mol
Density
6.0000g/cm3
Appearence

Copper(I) oxide is typically a reddish or brownish-red powder. It can appear in cubic crystals which are found in a mineral form known as cuprite.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Oxocopper

Oxocopper, commonly known as copper(II) oxide, is a compound with interesting solubility characteristics that generally reflect the behavior of ionic compounds in water. It is important to consider the following points when discussing its solubility:

  • Poor Water Solubility: Oxocopper is typically insoluble in water. This means that when it is added to aqueous solutions, it does not dissolve significantly. The limited solubility is due to the strong ionic bonds between copper ions and oxide ions.
  • Solubility in Acids: However, oxocopper is more soluble in acidic solutions. For instance, it dissolves readily in dilute hydrochloric acid, forming copper(II) chloride:
    • CuO + 2 HCl → CuCl2 + H2O
  • Role of pH: The solubility of oxocopper can be influenced by the pH of the solution. In alkaline conditions, the formation of complex ions can further increase its solubility.

In summary, while oxocopper is known for its limited solubility in water, its behavior changes significantly in different chemical environments, illustrating the intricate relationship between solubility and acidity:

  • Insoluble in neutral water
  • Soluble in acidic solutions
  • Potentially soluble in alkaline solutions due to complexation

This versatility in solubility makes oxocopper an intriguing compound within the realm of chemistry!

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Oxocopper

Oxocopper, commonly known as copper(I) oxide or cuprous oxide, is a fascinating compound that showcases the intriguing properties of copper in its oxidation states. Here are some key points that highlight the significance and characteristics of this remarkable compound:

  • Composition: Oxocopper is formed when copper is oxidized, displaying a unique +1 oxidation state. This distinguishes it from copper(II) oxide, which has a +2 oxidation state.
  • Molecular Nature: The compound typically forms a red or reddish-brown powder, which is crucial in various applications, including pigments and semiconductors.
  • Applications: Its uses include:
    • As a pesticide in agriculture, especially against fungal infections.
    • In the manufacture of electrical wires due to its excellent conductivity.
    • As a catalyst in various chemical reactions, notably in organic synthesis.
  • Photovoltaic Potential: Recent studies have explored the application of oxocopper in solar cells, suggesting its potential for enhancing energy efficiency due to its semiconductor properties.
  • Historical Significance: Oxocopper has been used since ancient times, particularly in ceramics and glassmaking, where its vibrant color was prized.

In summary, the versatility of oxocopper not only underscores the compound's importance in practical applications but also illustrates the dynamic behavior of copper throughout history and modern science. This compound serves as a reminder of how metals can reveal their multifaceted nature under varying conditions.

As one scientist remarked, "Oxides of metals are gateways to understanding reactivity and utility in practical settings, and oxocopper is no exception!"

Synonyms
Copper(II) oxide
1317-38-0
Copper oxide
oxocopper
Copper monoxide
Banacobru ol
Chrome Brown
Copper Brown
Copper monooxide
Copper(2+) oxide
Cu-O Linkage
C.I. 77403
MFCD00010979
CuO
Paramelaconite
Natural tenorite
Copper (II) oxide
Boliden Salt K-33
copper(II)oxide
163686-95-1
Boliden-CCA Wood Preservative
CCA Type C Wood Preservative
Osmose K-33 Wood Preservative
Osmose P-50 Wood Preservative
Osmose K-33-A Wood Preservative
Osmose K-33-C Wood Preservative
CI 77403
copper-oxygen
Farboil Super Tropical Anti-Fouling 1260
Copper II Oxide
Copper Oxide Ink
Copper oxide, CuO
Copper Oxide Powder
copper-(II) oxide
Copper Oxide Dispersion
Copper Oxide Nanopowder
Cupric Oxide Nanopowder
Copper oxide nano-chains
Copper(II) oxide, CP
Copper(II) oxide, Puratronic?
Copper Oxide Powder, 99+% Nano
Copper oxide nanopowder (~40 nm)
Copper(II) oxide, LR, >=97%
AKOS015950660
Copper(II) oxide (99.995%-Cu)
FC160925
Copper(II) oxide, ACS reagent, >=99.0%
Copper(II) oxide, powder, <10 mum, 98%
CS-0016015
NS00075647
Chromium Silicide (CrSi2) Sputtering Targets
Copper(II) oxide, >=99.0% (RT), granular
Copper(II) oxide, 99.999% trace metals basis
Copper(II) oxide, p.a., ACS reagent, 99.0%
EN300-1692612
Q27458610
Copper(II) oxide, powder, 99.99% trace metals basis
Copper(II) oxide, powder, 99.995% trace metals basis
Copper(II) oxide, nanopowder, <50 nm particle size (TEM)
Copper(II) oxide, puriss. p.a., >=99.0% (RT), powder
Copper(II) oxide, nanotubes, diam. x L 10-12 nm x 75-100 nm
Copper(II) oxide on alumina, 14-20 mesh, extent of labeling: 13 wt. % loading
Cupric oxide purified, Ultra pure, Powder, Low heavy metals (As: <= 1 ppm, Cd: <= 0.5 ppm, Pb: <= 1 ppm & Hg: <= 0.1 ppm)