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Sulfate Ion

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Identification
Molecular formula
SO42−
CAS number
14808-79-8
IUPAC name
sulfate
State
State

In pure ionic form, as found in aqueous solutions, the sulfate ion is a component of various common compounds and is not isolated as a substance at room temperature. As part of sulfate salts, it is usually in solid state.

Melting point (Celsius)
270.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
543.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
340.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
613.00
General information
Molecular weight
96.06g/mol
Molar mass
96.0600g/mol
Density
2.6640g/cm3
Appearence

The sulfate ion is colorless and generally occurs in aqueous solution. When it forms salts or compounds with metal ions or organic molecules, it can appear as white to colorless crystalline solids. Many sulfate salts are soluble in water, giving clear, colorless solutions.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Sulfate (SO42−)

The sulfate ion (SO42−), known for its occurrence in various minerals and compounds, exhibits noteworthy solubility characteristics that can be broadly categorized based on various factors. Here are key points regarding sulfate solubility:

  • General Solubility: Most sulfate salts are soluble in water, particularly those formed with alkali metals (e.g., sodium sulfate, potassium sulfate).
  • Exceptions: Some sulfates have limited solubility. Notably:
    • Barium sulfate (BaSO4): Highly insoluble, often used in medical imaging.
    • Lead(II) sulfate (PbSO4): Insoluble in water, making it useful in battery applications.
    • Strontium sulfate (SrSO4): Also shows low solubility.
  • Temperature Dependence: The solubility of many sulfates increases with temperature, making them more soluble in warmer water.
  • Influence of pH: The solubility can be affected by pH levels; acidic conditions may change the solubility profile of some sulfate salts.

In summary, while sulfates generally display good solubility in water, the specific solubility of a sulfate compound is contingent upon its chemical composition and environmental conditions. As noted, "solubility does not come in one size fits all," and understanding these nuances is key to leveraging sulfate compounds effectively.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Sulfate (SO42−)

Sulfate is a fascinating polyatomic ion that plays a critical role in various chemical and biological processes. Here are some interesting insights into this important compound:

  • Natural Abundance: Sulfate ions are found widely in nature, often occurring in minerals such as barite (BaSO4) and gypsum (CaSO4·2H2O), making them significant in geological and environmental studies.
  • Biological Importance: Sulfate plays a vital role in biological systems, particularly in the formation of amino acids. The amino acid cysteine contains sulfur in the form of a sulfhydryl group, and its production relies on sulfate.
  • Environmental Impact: Sulfates are also essential in environmental chemistry. They can form from the oxidation of sulfur dioxide (SO2), contributing to acid rain. This phenomenon has significant implications for ecosystems, soil chemistry, and water quality.
  • Industrial Uses: In industry, sulfates are used in the production of a wide range of products, including detergents, fertilizers, and chemicals, but combinations such as ammonium sulfate, are particularly noteworthy for their use as fertilizer ingredients.
  • Health Considerations: Some studies have linked high concentrations of sulfates in drinking water to health issues, making water testing crucial for ensuring safe levels.
  • Electrochemical Applications: Sulfates play an important role in electrochemistry. They are used in the manufacturing of lead-acid batteries, where the sulfate undergoes reversible reactions to store and release energy.

In conclusion, the sulfate ion is not just a simple chemical species; it is a key player in various chemical, biological, and environmental processes, showcasing the intricate connections within the natural world and modern technology.

Synonyms
sulfate
Sulphate
14808-79-8
Sulfate ion
Sulfate(2-)
Sulfate dianion
Sulfate ions
Sulfate (ion)
Sulfate radical anion
Sulphate Ion
tetraoxosulfate(2-)
Sulfate anion(2-)
Sulfuric acid ion(2-)
UNII-7IS9N8KPMG
7IS9N8KPMG
tetraoxosulfate(VI)
Sulfate (7CI,8CI,9CI)
tetraoxidosulfate(2-)
SO42-
SULPHATE(2-)
SO4(2-)
DTXSID3042425
CHEBI:16189
SO4--
SO4-2
Sulfate-35S
(SO4)(2-)
[SO4](2-)
SULFATE STANDARD
Sulfate (S-35)
Sulfate Standard: SO4(-2) @ 1000 microg/mL in H2O
Sulfate Standard: SO4(-2) @ 10000 microg/mL in H2O
LOA FREEDOM S
NEW-FREEDOM S
Zirconium Basic sulfate
SULFATE [VANDF]
LOA NEW-FREEDOM S
sulfuric acid, ion(2-)
CHEMBL183495
Sulfate Standard: SO4(-2) @ 100 microg/mL in H2O
DTXCID1022425
BDBM26992
MFCD00145343
DB14546
NCGC00248906-01
18785-72-3
SO4 (2-)
NS00114210
Q172290
AQUANAL(TM)-plus sulfate (SO4) 50-330 mg/L, refill pack for 37429
604-622-9