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Sodium arsenate

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Identification
Molecular formula
Na3AsO4
CAS number
13464-38-5
IUPAC name
sodium arsenate
State
State

At room temperature, sodium arsenate is a solid. Depending on its level of hydration, it can absorb moisture from the environment or may lose water of crystallization upon heating.

Melting point (Celsius)
86.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
359.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
0.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
0.00
General information
Molecular weight
207.87g/mol
Molar mass
207.8730g/mol
Density
1.8700g/cm3
Appearence

Sodium arsenate typically appears as a white, crystalline powder. It is often found in its hydrated forms, such as sodium arsenate dodecahydrate, where it maintains a similar white, crystalline appearance.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Sodium Arsenate

Sodium arsenate, with the chemical formula Na3AsO4, is an ionic compound that demonstrates significant solubility in water. This characteristic is largely due to its ionic nature, which breaks down into its constituent ions in aqueous solutions. Here are some key points regarding the solubility of sodium arsenate:

  • Highly Soluble: Sodium arsenate readily dissolves in water, making it a useful compound in various applications, including as a herbicide and in wood preservatives.
  • Concentration Matters: The solubility can be influenced by various factors such as temperature and pH. Generally, increased temperatures can lead to higher solubility rates.
  • Environmental Impact: Due to its solubility, caution is advised as sodium arsenate can leach into groundwater, posing potential hazards to aquatic life and human health.

In conclusion, sodium arsenate's high solubility in water facilitates various industrial and agricultural uses, but its potential environmental implications should not be underestimated. As with many soluble salts, understanding its behavior in aqueous solutions is crucial for its effective application and management.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Sodium Arsenate

Sodium arsenate, commonly known for its role as a pesticide and herbicide, is a fascinating compound that presents both utilitarian benefits and notable risks. It is important to understand both aspects to appreciate its significance in various fields.

Uses and Applications

  • Pesticide: Sodium arsenate is used in agriculture, particularly in combating various pests.
  • Wood Preservation: The compound serves as a wood preservative, helping to prevent fungal decay and insect damage.
  • Laboratory Uses: It finds applications in laboratories as a reagent in several chemical analyses.

Toxicity and Safety Concerns

Despite its usefulness, sodium arsenate is highly toxic and poses significant health hazards:

  • Public Health Risk: Sodium arsenate is classified as a potential carcinogen, raising concerns over its use in everyday products.
  • Environmental Impact: The compound can contaminate water sources, affecting both ecosystems and human health.

Chemical Behavior

When discussing sodium arsenate, it is essential to consider its chemical properties:

  • Ion Formation: It typically exists in a hydrated form, where it dissociates in solution to release arsenate ions.
  • Stability: Sodium arsenate displays stability under various conditions, allowing it to be utilized effectively in agricultural practices.

In summary, sodium arsenate serves multiple roles in industrial, agricultural, and laboratory settings. However, it is imperative to handle and use this compound with caution, considering its **toxic** and **environmental** implications. As a student of chemistry or a scientist, understanding both the advantages and risks associated with sodium arsenate is crucial for responsible applications in research and industry.