Sulfates

Definition

Sulfates are salts or esters of sulfuric acid containing the anion $SO_4^{2-}$. They are commonly found in minerals, industrial processes, and biological systems.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sulfates are highly soluble in water and play a significant role in the natural water cycle.
2. The most common sulfate mineral is gypsum, composed of calcium sulfate dihydrate ($CaSO_4 \cdot 2H_2O$).
3. Industrial production of sulfates involves processes such as the contact process for sulfuric acid manufacture.
4. Sulfates can form acidic solutions when combined with hydrogen ions, leading to environmental issues like acid rain.
5. Barium sulfate ($BaSO_4$) is used in medical imaging due to its opacity to X-rays.

Review Questions

• What is the chemical formula for the sulfate ion?
• Name one common sulfate mineral and its chemical composition.
• How do sulfates affect environmental conditions such as acid rain?

Related terms

Sulfuric Acid: A strong mineral acid with the chemical formula $H_2SO_4$. It is used in various industrial processes and manufacturing.

Gypsum: A soft sulfate mineral composed of calcium sulfate dihydrate ($CaSO_4 \cdot 2H_2O$), commonly used in construction materials.

$SO_4^{2-}$: The chemical formula for the sulfate ion, consisting of one sulfur atom covalently bonded to four oxygen atoms, with a -2 charge.