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Sodium formate

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Identification
Molecular formula
NaHCOO
CAS number
141-53-7
IUPAC name
sodium;formate
State
State

At room temperature, sodium formate is found in a solid state. It may be encountered as a powder or in crystalline form.

Melting point (Celsius)
253.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
526.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
360.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
633.15
General information
Molecular weight
68.01g/mol
Molar mass
68.0070g/mol
Density
1.9200g/cm3
Appearence

Sodium formate is a white, crystalline solid that is odorless. It often appears as a powder or granular substance and is deliquescent, meaning it can absorb moisture from the atmosphere.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Sodium Formate

Sodium formate (NaCOO-Na+) is known for its excellent solubility in water. This characteristic is a result of its ionic nature, which facilitates interaction with water molecules.

Key Aspects of Solubility:

  • High Solubility: Sodium formate dissolves readily, with solubility values often exceeding 40 g per 100 mL of water at room temperature.
  • Temperature Dependence: Solubility can increase with temperature, making it advantageous in various thermal applications.
  • Polar Nature: As a polar compound, its ionic bonds dissociate in aqueous solutions, enhancing overall solubility.
  • Applications: Its high solubility makes it ideal for applications in de-icing, buffer solutions, and food processing.

In summary, the solubility of sodium formate in water not only showcases the compound's effectiveness in numerous practical applications but also highlights the importance of ionic interactions in facilitating solubility. As we explore more compounds, it's essential to remember that "solubility helps define a compound's utility and functionality in real-world scenarios."

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Sodium Formate

Sodium formate, a compound with the formula Na+ HCOO-, is the sodium salt of formic acid, forming a useful substance in various industries. Here are some remarkable aspects that highlight its significance:

  • Historical Significance: Sodium formate was first synthesized in the 19th century and has since been recognized for its unique properties and applications.
  • Applications in Industry: This compound plays an essential role in:
    • Textile industry as a dyeing agent and mordant.
    • Animal feed as a preservative and setter for pH stabilization.
    • De-icing agents in winter road maintenance.
  • Eco-Friendly Choice: Sodium formate is considered a more environmentally friendly alternative in certain applications compared to other salts, making it appealing for sustainable practices.
  • Biodegradability: The compound is also known for its biodegradability, which means it breaks down into natural substances without harming the environment.
  • Unique Chemical Properties: Sodium formate possesses interesting properties that make it useful in:
    • Buffering solutions in electrochemical applications.
    • Providing carbon dioxide when acidified, which is a useful reaction in laboratory settings.

With its diverse range of applications and eco-friendly nature, sodium formate stands out as a vital chemical compound in both industrial and scientific realms. As researchers continue to explore its potential, its importance is likely to grow in future applications!