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Sodium thiocyanate

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Identification
Molecular formula
NaSCN
CAS number
540-72-7
IUPAC name
sodium;thiocyanate
State
State

Solid at room temperature.

Melting point (Celsius)
287.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
560.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
307.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
580.15
General information
Molecular weight
81.07g/mol
Molar mass
81.0720g/mol
Density
1.7350g/cm3
Appearence

Sodium thiocyanate is a colorless crystalline solid. It is highly soluble in water, which gives a clear, colorless solution. In its crystalline form, it sometimes exhibits a slight yellow or pink tint due to impurities.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Sodium Thiocyanate

Sodium thiocyanate (NaSCN) is known for its high solubility in water, making it an interesting compound in various chemical applications. Its solubility can be attributed to the following factors:

  • Ionic nature: As an ionic compound, sodium thiocyanate dissociates readily in water, producing sodium ions (Na+) and thiocyanate ions (SCN−).
  • Hydration: The solvation of the ions by water molecules stabilizes the dissolved species, enhancing solubility.
  • Temperature dependence: The solubility of sodium thiocyanate increases as the temperature rises, which is not common for all salts.

Specifically, sodium thiocyanate has a solubility of approximately 76 g per 100 mL of water at room temperature. This characteristic makes it particularly useful in various chemical processes, such as:

  • Preparation of thiocyanate salts.
  • Solvent for extraction processes.
  • Usage in analytical chemistry.

In summary, sodium thiocyanate is a highly soluble compound that showcases the general principle that ionic compounds can exhibit significant solubility in polar solvents like water, especially under varying temperature conditions. Its practical applications are numerous, thanks to this solubility trait.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Sodium Thiocyanate

Sodium thiocyanate (often abbreviated as NaSCN) is a fascinating compound that has garnered considerable interest in both industrial and laboratory settings. Here are some notable aspects of this intriguing chemical:

  • Versatile Solvent: Sodium thiocyanate is known for its ability to dissolve various substances, making it an excellent solvent for a range of applications, particularly in organic chemistry.
  • Uses in Agriculture: This compound is utilized in various agricultural applications, such as a source of sulfur for plants. Its properties can enhance crop growth when used correctly.
  • Analytical Chemistry: Sodium thiocyanate is often employed in titrations and other analytical methods. Its presence can help detect certain metal ions, such as iron, through the formation of colored complexes.
  • Industrial Applications: Beyond the laboratory, this compound is also used in manufacturing processes, such as in the production of various organic chemicals and in the extraction of metals.
  • Complexation Chemistry: Sodium thiocyanate can form complexes with a variety of metal ions, which can lead to interesting studies in coordination chemistry. These complexes often exhibit unique characteristics and behaviors.

Did you know that sodium thiocyanate was once utilized as a source of cyanide in several industrial processes? However, due to its toxicity, safety protocols must be strictly followed when handling this compound. As a quote from 19th-century chemist Auguste Laurent reminds us: "No experiment is ever a failure if the results are recorded." This highlights the importance of careful experimentation with sodium thiocyanate to further our understanding of its properties and reactions.

In summary, sodium thiocyanate is not only an important compound in various scientific fields, but it also presents numerous opportunities for research and development. Its wide range of applications makes it a valuable asset in both chemistry and industry.