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Sodium benzenesulfonate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C6H5NaO3S
CAS number
515-42-4
IUPAC name
sodium;benzenesulfonate
State
State

At room temperature, sodium benzenesulfonate is a solid. It is stable under standard conditions and easy to handle in powder or crystalline form.

Melting point (Celsius)
300.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
573.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
270.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
543.15
General information
Molecular weight
180.18g/mol
Molar mass
180.1760g/mol
Density
1.4850g/cm3
Appearence

Sodium benzenesulfonate appears as a white crystalline powder. It is typically found in a solid form and often used in industrial applications or as a laboratory reagent due to its ionic properties and solubility in water. The substance lacks color and displays a translucent crystalline structure.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Sodium Benzenesulfonate

Sodium benzenesulfonate, with the chemical formula C6H5NaO3S, exhibits interesting solubility characteristics due to its ionic nature. Being a sodium salt, it is known for its high solubility in water. Some key points to consider include:

  • Water Solubility: Sodium benzenesulfonate is highly soluble in water owing to the presence of the ionic sodium ion, which interacts favorably with water molecules.
  • Solvent Compatibility: In addition to water, it can also dissolve in other polar solvents, making it versatile for various applications.
  • Dissociation: Upon dissolution, sodium benzenesulfonate dissociates into sodium ions and benzenesulfonate anions, which promotes conductivity in aqueous solutions.
  • Effect of Temperature: Solubility can be affected by temperature; typically, higher temperatures will enhance its solubility in water.
  • Comparison to Other Compounds: Unlike many organic compounds that are poorly soluble in water, sodium benzenesulfonate’s structure enables it to interact effectively with polar solvents.

In summary, the solubility of sodium benzenesulfonate in water and other polar solvents makes it an important compound in various chemical processes, especially in those requiring ionic compounds for enhancing solubility.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Sodium Benzenesulfonate

Sodium benzenesulfonate is a widely used chemical compound in various industries, primarily known for its role as a versatile *surfactant* and *dispersing agent*. Here are some engaging insights about this compound:

  • Surfactant Properties: Sodium benzenesulfonate serves as an effective surfactant, which means it can lower the surface tension of liquids. This property is crucial in formulations for soaps and detergents, helping to enhance cleaning efficiency.
  • Applications: The compound finds use in multiple applications, including:
    • Textile industry for dyeing processes
    • Pesticide formulations to enhance wetting and spreading
    • Cleaning agents and household products
  • Environmental Considerations: Sodium benzenesulfonate is considered to be relatively safe for the environment, as it breaks down easily and has low toxicity levels in aquatic organisms.
  • Chemical Reactivity: It readily reacts with acids to form benzenesulfonic acid, which is a significant precursor for various chemical syntheses.
  • Biochemical Importance: The compound plays a role in biochemical applications, with studies examining its potential in drug delivery systems due to its surfactant properties.

Overall, sodium benzenesulfonate is a fascinating compound with a wide array of applications and significance in both industrial and scientific contexts. Its ability to function as a *surfactant* and *dispersing agent* makes it an essential chemical in various formulations, showcasing the intricate connection between chemistry and everyday products.