Skip to main content

Potassium bisulfite

ADVERTISEMENT
Identification
Molecular formula
KHSO3
CAS number
7773-03-7
IUPAC name
potassium;hydrogen sulfite
State
State

At room temperature, potassium bisulfite is typically a solid. Its hygroscopic nature means that it can absorb water from the air, affecting its flow properties as a powder.

Melting point (Celsius)
190.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
463.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
360.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
633.00
General information
Molecular weight
120.15g/mol
Molar mass
120.1540g/mol
Density
2.3660g/cm3
Appearence

Potassium bisulfite appears as a white crystalline powder. It is often hygroscopic, meaning it can absorb moisture from the air, which may cause the powder to clump together.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Potassium Hydrogen Sulfite

Potassium hydrogen sulfite, also known as potassium bisulfite, has noteworthy solubility characteristics that make it useful in various applications. Its solubility can be summarized as follows:

  • Highly Soluble in Water: Potassium hydrogen sulfite (KHSO3) is known for its high solubility in water, making it an excellent choice for aqueous solutions.
  • Temperature Dependence: The solubility of KHSO3 increases with temperature, which means that warmer water can dissolve more of this compound than cooler water.
  • Common Applications: Due to its solubility, it is frequently used in food preservation, winemaking, and as a reducing agent in various chemical processes.

It is important to note that the solubility may vary with impurities and the specific conditions of the solution. Thus, it is wise to consider the context in which potassium hydrogen sulfite is utilized. In general, users can expect a readily dissolvable compound that plays a significant role in many chemical and industrial applications.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Potassium Hydrogen Sulfite

Potassium hydrogen sulfite, also known as potassium bisulfite, is a versatile compound that plays a significant role across various fields. Here are some compelling facts about this fascinating substance:

  • Food Preservation: One of the primary uses of potassium hydrogen sulfite is in the food industry. It acts as a preservative and an antioxidant, preventing spoilage in products such as dried fruits and wines.
  • Chemical Reagent: In laboratories, this compound is used as a reducing agent. Its ability to donate electrons makes it ideal for various chemical reactions, facilitating the conversion of higher oxidation states to lower ones.
  • pH Regulator: Potassium hydrogen sulfite can help in stabilizing the pH levels of different solutions, which is crucial in many biochemical and industrial processes. This characteristic ensures optimal conditions for reactions to proceed.
  • Environmental Impact: Despite its wide applications, its use in some contexts, such as winemaking and food processing, has raised environmental concerns. Understanding the balance between efficacy and ecological responsibility is essential.
  • Safety Considerations: When handling this compound, safety precautions should be taken. It can release sulfur dioxide when it reacts with strong acids, so appropriate measures should be in place to prevent exposure.

In summary, potassium hydrogen sulfite is a compound that, while often overlooked, has significant implications in food science, chemical research, and environmental awareness. Its multifaceted nature exemplifies the importance of understanding chemicals not just for their reactivity, but also for their role in everyday life.