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Sulfite

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Identification
Molecular formula
SO32-
CAS number
14265-45-3
IUPAC name
sulfite
State
State

At room temperature, sulfites are typically found in the form of colorless or white crystalline powder, granules or as an aqueous solution, depending on the compound they are part of.

Melting point (Celsius)
0.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
0.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
0.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
0.00
General information
Molecular weight
80.06g/mol
Molar mass
80.0630g/mol
Density
2.6300g/cm3
Appearence

Sulfite compounds typically occur as salts composed of sulfur and oxygen, ranging from white to yellowish-white in color. These compounds are in solid form.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Sulfite (SO32-)

The solubility of sulfite ions (SO32-) in water can be both interesting and complex. Generally, sulfite salts tend to be soluble in water. Here are several key points to consider regarding their solubility:

  • Alkali Metal Sulfites: Compounds such as sodium sulfite (Na2SO3) and potassium sulfite (K2SO3) exhibit high solubility in water. This property makes them valuable in various applications such as food preservation.
  • Other Metal Sulfites: The solubility of sulfites can decrease when other metal ions are involved. For example, calcium sulfite (CaSO3) is only slightly soluble in water, which is important for its role in certain industrial processes.
  • pH Dependence: The solubility of sulfites can be influenced by pH. In alkaline solutions, sulfite ions can convert to bisulfite (HSO3-), which also impacts overall solubility dynamics.
  • Temperature Effects: As with many salts, the solubility of sulfites generally increases with temperature, making high-temperature applications more feasible.

In summary, the solubility of sulfite ions is primarily determined by the nature of the associated metal ions and environmental conditions. As emphasized, conditions such as pH and temperature play a significant role, and understanding these factors can help in optimizing their use in chemical processes.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Sulfite (SO32-)

Sulfite, represented by the ion SO32-, is a fascinating compound with diverse applications and significant biological relevance. Here are some key points to understand about sulfite:

  • Oxidation State: In sulfite, sulfur exists in a +4 oxidation state, which contributes to its chemical reactivity and interactions in various processes.
  • Presence in Nature: Sulfite occurs naturally in certain biochemical cycles, notably as a product of the metabolism of sulfur-containing amino acids and in the microbial reduction of sulfate.
  • Uses in Industry: Sulfites are widely used as preservatives in food and beverages, particularly in wine making. They help prevent microbial spoilage and oxidation, ensuring product stability.
  • Health Considerations: While sulfites serve essential roles in food preservation, some individuals are sensitive to sulfites, leading to allergic reactions. Regulations exist to limit sulfite concentrations in food products.
  • Environmental Impact: In environmental chemistry, sulfite can be reduced to sulfide, contributing to the sulfur cycle and playing a role in reducing atmospheric pollution.

In conclusion, sulfite is not only an important compound in chemistry but also plays critical roles in biological systems and various industries. Its multifaceted nature makes it a subject of ongoing research and practical significance in everyday applications.

Synonyms
sulfite
Sulfite ion
Sulphite
14265-45-3
Sulfite ions
Sulfites
Sulfite dianion
trioxosulfate(2-)
sulfonates
sulfurous acid, ion(2-)
trioxosulfate(IV)
trioxidosulfate(2-)
SULFITE(2-)
SULFITE (SO32-)
DTXSID4049791
CHEBI:17359
CHEBI:33543
SHO3(-)
SO3-2
[SHO3](-)
15744271E9
SO3(2-)
[SO3](2-)
Inorganic Sulfites
Sulfites, Inorganic
(SO3)(2-)
organosulfonate
sulfito
sulfitos
sulphites
organosulfonates
UNII-15744271E9
Sulfite (2-)
organosulfonate oxoanion
Sulfiite (SO32-)
organosulfonate oxoanions
hydridotrioxidosulfate(1-)
Epitope ID:134837
DTXCID1029750
CHEBI:26823
CHEBI:33554
AKOS032949886
Q413363
Q27115680