Skip to main content

Sulfurous acid

ADVERTISEMENT
Identification
Molecular formula
H2SO3
CAS number
7782-99-2
IUPAC name
sulfurous acid
State
State

In solution, sulfurous acid is a colorless liquid. In its gaseous form, it is unstable and quickly decomposes.

Melting point (Celsius)
-115.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
158.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
-60.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
213.00
General information
Molecular weight
82.07g/mol
Molar mass
82.0730g/mol
Density
1.0300g/cm3
Appearence

Sulfurous acid is a colorless liquid in solution form. It is often encountered as a solution with a pungent, irritating sulfur dioxide-like odor. It is not typically found in pure form due to its instability, readily decomposing into sulfur dioxide and water.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Sulfurous Acid (H2SO3)

Sulfurous acid, denoted as H2SO3, is a fascinating compound with specific solubility characteristics that are significant in various chemical processes. This acid is known to be quite soluble in water, which is a key feature that affects its behavior in both natural and industrial contexts. Here are some important points regarding its solubility:

  • High Water Solubility: H2SO3 readily dissolves in water, forming a solution that can contribute to acidity.
  • Temperature Influence: The solubility of sulfurous acid can be influenced by temperature; generally, higher temperatures may lead to increased solubility.
  • Hydration: Upon dissolution, sulfurous acid can partially ionize to produce bisulfite (HSO3-) and sulfite (SO32-) ions, enhancing its reactivity in aqueous environments.

Because of these solubility features, sulfurous acid plays crucial roles in various chemical reactions, especially in the context of acid-base chemistry and environmental chemistry, where it can affect pH levels significantly. To sum it up, sulfurous acid's high solubility in water allows for extensive interaction in solutions, making it a valuable compound in both laboratory and industrial settings.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Sulfurous Acid

Sulfurous acid, known scientifically as H2SO3, is a fascinating yet often overlooked compound in the realm of chemistry. Here are some engaging insights into this compound:

  • Weak Acid: Unlike its counterpart sulfuric acid, H2SO4, sulfurous acid is a weak acid. This characteristic makes it less corrosive and easier to handle in various applications.
  • Formation: It is typically formed by dissolving sulfur dioxide (SO2) in water. This reaction is significant in atmospheric chemistry, particularly concerning acid rain.
  • Uses in Industry: Sulfurous acid has practical applications including:
    • Acting as a reducing agent in chemical processes.
    • Being used in the manufacture of certain dyes and as a preservative for some foods.
  • Role in Biology: While not directly involved in biological responses, sulfurous acid indirectly plays a role in various biochemical processes, including those involved in oxidative stress.
  • Environmental Relevance: The presence of sulfurous acid in the atmosphere contributes to the formation of acid rain, which can have detrimental effects on ecosystems, buildings, and human health.

As noted by many chemists, "Understanding sulfurous acid is essential for grasping the complexities of sulfur chemistry and its implications in both industry and the environment." This underscores the importance of studying such a compound beyond its basic properties.

In conclusion, sulfurous acid, while often overshadowed by stronger acids, remains a crucial part of the chemical landscape, influencing both industrial applications and environmental outcomes.

Synonyms
Sulfurous acid
7782-99-2
Sulphurous acid
Schweflige saure
H2SO3
EINECS 231-973-1
acide sulfureux
acido sulfuroso
CHEBI:48854
schweflige Saeure
trioxosulfuric acid
dihydroxidooxidosulfur
UNII-J1P7893F4J
J1P7893F4J
SULPHUROSUM ACIDUM
DTXSID7042435
S(O)(OH)2
SULFUROUS ACID (II)
SULFUROUS ACID [II]
(SO(OH)2)
[SO(OH)2]
Schweflige saure [German]
UN1833
Trioxosulphate(IV)
MFCD00011335
Trioxosulphate(2-)
dihydrogen trioxosulfate
SULFUROUS ACID [MI]
CHEMBL1161699
DTXCID5022435
SULFUROUS ACID (H2SO3)
SULPHUROSUM ACIDUM [HPUS]
BDBM50147623
Sulfurous acid [UN1833] [Corrosive]
Sulfurous acid, SO2 (6.0%) in water
DB-231858
NS00013995
C00094
Q206778
231-973-1