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Sodium selenate

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Identification
Molecular formula
Na2SeO4
CAS number
13410-01-0
IUPAC name
selenate
State
State

At room temperature, sodium selenate is generally a solid. It forms a crystalline structure, depending on its hydration state, typically with a moist tendency due to its high affinity for water.

Melting point (Celsius)
580.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
853.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
710.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
983.00
General information
Molecular weight
188.95g/mol
Molar mass
188.9460g/mol
Density
3.0980g/cm3
Appearence

Sodium selenate appears as a colorless, crystalline solid. It is commonly available as its decahydrate form, which can appear white. This salt is soluble in water, forming a clear solution.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Selenium Compounds

The solubility of selenate compounds, typically represented by the formula SeO42-, can vary significantly based on the specific cation associated with the selenate ion. Here are some key points regarding their solubility:

  • Sodium selenate (Na2SeO4): Highly soluble in water, making it easily available for various applications.
  • Potassium selenate (K2SeO4): Similar to sodium selenate, this compound is also very soluble in aquatic environments.
  • Calcium selenate (CaSeO4): Displays moderate solubility, which can be influenced by the presence of other ions in solution.
  • Barium selenate (BaSeO4): Generally insoluble in water, often precipitating out of solution under standard conditions.

In general, the solubility of selenate compounds follows the pattern dictated by the solubility rules applied to sulfate compounds, where:

  • Most alkali metal selenates are soluble.
  • Alkaline earth metal selenates, like calcium, show variable solubility.
  • Some transition or heavy metal selenates can be completely insoluble.

In practical terms, pH, temperature, and ionic strength of the solution can significantly influence the solubility of these compounds. As a result, it is crucial to consider these factors in environmental and industrial contexts to understand how selenates will behave in aqueous solutions.

In conclusion, the solubility patterns of selenate compounds are important and can dictate their mobility and bioavailability in various settings. Always remember, “A little knowledge about solubility can go a long way in predicting chemical behavior.”

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Selenate

Selenate, an important chemical compound in the field of chemistry, carries unique characteristics and applications that are worth exploring. Below are some intriguing insights:

  • Oxidation State: In selenate, selenium exists in the +6 oxidation state. This makes it a strong oxidizing agent, similar to its sulfur counterpart, sulfate.
  • Biological Relevance: Selenate plays a vital role in the nutrition of some organisms. It can be utilized by certain bacteria and plants as a source of selenium, an essential trace element for human health.
  • Environmental Impact: The presence of selenate in the environment is a double-edged sword. While it is essential at trace levels, elevated concentrations can lead to toxicity in various organisms, impacting ecosystems significantly.
  • Analytical Chemistry: Selenate is often studied and analyzed in laboratories to monitor selenium levels in environmental samples. Techniques such as spectroscopy and chromatography are commonly employed to quantify its presence.
  • Industrial Applications: This compound is used in various industrial processes, including the production of glass and ceramics, where selenium imparts valuable properties such as color enhancement.

As scientists continue to study selenate, they uncover more about its versatility and influence across different fields, emphasizing the complexity of chemical interactions in our world.

Synonyms
selenate
SELENATE ION
14124-68-6
6X37R1DB70
DTXSID4074518
CHEBI:15075
DTXCID3034587
Selenium (VI) tetraoxide
UNII-6X37R1DB70
tetraoxidoselenate(2-)
SeO4(2-)
lambda~4~-selenium oxide; disodium
BDBM50130701
PD159559
Q27109020