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Tellurous acid

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Identification
Molecular formula
H2TeO3
CAS number
7803-68-1
IUPAC name
tellurous acid
State
State

At room temperature, tellurous acid is generally considered to be a solid. However, it is most commonly encountered in aqueous solution due to its instability when isolated in a dry form. In solution, it is a weak acid.

Melting point (Celsius)
0.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
0.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
0.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
0.00
General information
Molecular weight
177.62g/mol
Molar mass
177.6180g/mol
Density
1.9000g/cm3
Appearence

Tellurous acid is typically found as a colorless or pale yellow solid. It has a crystalline structure when in solid form and can be prepared in solution. The appearance might change slightly depending on its preparation method and purity.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Tellurous Acid (H2TeO3)

Tellurous acid, with the chemical formula H2TeO3, exhibits moderate solubility in water. Being a weak acid, its dissociation in aqueous solutions is not complete, which influences its overall solubility characteristics.

Here are some key points regarding the solubility of tellurous acid:

  • Water Solubility: H2TeO3 is soluble in water, which means it can form acidic solutions.
  • pH Level: The presence of hydroxide ions in solution can lead to partially hydrolyzed species, affecting pH and leading to variable solubility depending on concentration.
  • Temperature Dependency: Like many acids, the solubility of tellurous acid may increase with temperature, facilitating better dissolution.
  • Forming Salts: In acidic conditions, H2TeO3 can lead to the formation of tellurite salts, showcasing its reactivity.

In summary, while tellurous acid is generally considered soluble in water, its solubility may alter under different conditions such as varying concentrations, temperatures, and the presence of other ions in solution. Its ability to form salts further adds to its interesting chemical behavior in aqueous environments.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Tellurous Acid

Tellurous acid, a lesser-known oxoacid, holds a unique place in the realm of inorganic chemistry. Here are some fascinating aspects that underscore its significance:

  • Composition: Tellurous acid is composed of tellurium, oxygen, and hydrogen, showcasing the intriguing interactions among these elements.
  • Amphoteric Nature: This acid exhibits amphoteric properties, meaning it can react both as an acid and a base. This dual behavior is fascinating to chemists, as it opens up diverse pathways in chemical reactions.
  • Salt Formation: When reacting with bases, tellurous acid forms tellurites, which are utilized in various applications, such as optical glass production and in the realm of thermoelectric materials.
  • Research Interest: It has gained attention in the field of materials science. Scientists are investigating its properties for potential applications in electronics and other advanced materials.
  • Historical Context: First identified in the early 19th century, its study has evolved as techniques in analytical and inorganic chemistry have advanced, allowing for deeper insights into its reactivity and synthesis.

In summary, tellurous acid may not be the most prominent acid in the chemistry landscape, but its interesting properties and applications reveal the richness of chemical exploration and the endless possibilities of scientific discovery. As a chemistry student, engaging with such compounds broadens your understanding of the diverse elements and their complex behaviors.

Synonyms
Tellurous acid
10049-23-7
Telluric acid (H2TeO3)
tellurige Saeure
IVA6SGP6QM
UNII-IVA6SGP6QM
dihydroxidooxidotellurium
H2TeO3
EINECS 233-173-8
TELLUROUS ACID [MI]
[TeO(OH)2]
CHEBI:30465
TELLUROUS ACID (H2TEO3)
DTXSID90143339
TELLURIC(IV) ACID (H2TEO3)
TELLURIUM HYDROXIDE OXIDE (TE(OH)2O)
(TeO(OH)2)
tellurite anion
DTXCID2065830
233-173-8
Dihydrogen trioxotellurate
Tellurous(IV) acid
Potassium tellurite, >=90%
SCHEMBL159562
Q2358640