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Sodium acetate trihydrate

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Identification
Molecular formula
NaC2H3O2 · 3H2O
CAS number
6131-90-4
IUPAC name
sodium;acetate;trihydrate
State
State

At room temperature, sodium acetate trihydrate is a solid. It is hygroscopic, meaning it can absorb moisture from the air.

Melting point (Celsius)
58.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
331.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
123.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
396.15
General information
Molecular weight
136.08g/mol
Molar mass
136.0800g/mol
Density
1.4500g/cm3
Appearence

Sodium acetate trihydrate appears as a colorless or white crystalline solid. It might form efflorescent crystals that can lose water molecules when exposed to air, reverting to the anhydrous form.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Sodium Acetate Trihydrate

Sodium acetate trihydrate (NaC₂H₃O₂·3H₂O) is known for its significant solubility in water. Its solubility can be attributed to the following factors:

  • Polar Nature: Sodium acetate is an ionic compound, and the presence of the polar acetate ion (C₂H₃O₂−) enhances its ability to dissolve in polar solvents like water.
  • Hydration of Ions: When sodium acetate trihydrate dissolves, the ions are surrounded by water molecules, effectively shielding them and allowing them to disperse in solution.
  • Temperature Dependence: The solubility of sodium acetate increases with temperature. This characteristic is useful in applications where higher solubility is required under heated conditions.

To provide a clearer picture of its behavior:

  1. At 20°C: Approximately 1.2 g of sodium acetate can dissolve in 1 mL of water.
  2. At 60°C: This can increase to about 2.5 g/mL, demonstrating the strong temperature dependence.

Overall, sodium acetate trihydrate is significantly soluble in water, making it a compound of choice in various aqueous applications. As noted, its solubility characteristics allow for versatility in sử dụng in both industrial and laboratory settings. So, whether for a simple laboratory experiment or a complex industrial process, sodium acetate trihydrate proves to be an indispensable compound due to its excellent solubility properties.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Sodium Acetate Trihydrate

Sodium acetate trihydrate is a fascinating compound that plays a significant role in both industrial applications and culinary delights. Here are some intriguing aspects of this compound:

  • History in Food: Sodium acetate, often referred to as "sour salt," is widely used as a seasoning and preservative in various food products. It contributes a salty and tangy flavor, making it a common ingredient in snack foods.
  • Capable of Supercooling: One of the most remarkable features of sodium acetate trihydrate is its ability to undergo a supercooling phenomenon. When a saturated solution is cooled below its normal freezing point without crystallizing, it can instantly solidify upon disturbance, creating a dramatic effect.
  • Heat Packs: It is notably used in reusable heat packs. When the solid form of sodium acetate is triggered, it crystallizes and releases heat in an exothermic reaction, providing warmth that can last for hours.
  • Buffer Solutions: Sodium acetate acts as an important buffer in biochemical and molecular biology applications. It helps maintain pH levels in various experiments, which is crucial for the stability of proteins and other biological molecules.
  • Environmental Impact: As a biodegradable compound, sodium acetate is environmentally friendly compared to other chemical salts used in similar applications. Its widespread use in industries is seen as a step towards sustainability.

Overall, sodium acetate trihydrate has numerous practical applications that highlight its versatility and significance in both culinary and scientific fields. As Richard Feynman famously stated, "What I cannot create, I do not understand." Understanding this compound opens doors to various innovative uses across multiple domains.