WHY AQUEOUS SOLUTION OF CUSO4 IS ACIDIC

WHY AQUEOUS SOLUTION OF CUSO4 IS ACIDIC

WHY AQUEOUS SOLUTION OF CUSO4 IS ACIDIC

When copper sulfate dissolves in water, it undergoes a hydrolysis reaction, which results in the formation of hydrogen ions (H+) and sulfate ions (SO42-). This reaction is exothermic, meaning that it releases heat. The chemical equation for the hydrolysis of copper sulfate is as follows:

CuSO4(s) + H2O(l) → Cu2+(aq) + SO42-(aq) + H+(aq)

The hydrogen ions (H+) that are produced in this reaction are responsible for the acidic nature of the aqueous solution of copper sulfate. The more copper sulfate that is dissolved in water, the more hydrogen ions are produced, and the more acidic the solution becomes.

Factors Affecting the Acidity of an Aqueous Solution of CuSO4

Several factors can affect the acidity of an aqueous solution of copper sulfate. These factors include:

  • The concentration of copper sulfate: The more copper sulfate that is dissolved in water, the more hydrogen ions are produced, and the more acidic the solution becomes.
  • The temperature of the solution: The higher the temperature of the solution, the more hydrogen ions are produced, and the more acidic the solution becomes.
  • The presence of other substances: The presence of other substances in the solution can also affect the acidity of the solution. For example, the presence of a base can neutralize the hydrogen ions and make the solution less acidic.

Applications of Aqueous Solutions of CuSO4

Aqueous solutions of copper sulfate have a variety of applications, including:

  • As a fungicide: Copper sulfate is used as a fungicide to prevent and treat fungal diseases in plants.
  • As a wood preservative: Copper sulfate is used as a wood preservative to protect wood from decay.
  • As an algicide: Copper sulfate is used as an algicide to kill algae in swimming pools and other water bodies.
  • As an electrolyte: Copper sulfate is used as an electrolyte in batteries.

Conclusion

Aqueous solutions of copper sulfate are acidic due to the hydrolysis reaction that occurs when copper sulfate dissolves in water. This reaction produces hydrogen ions (H+), which are responsible for the acidic nature of the solution. The acidity of an aqueous solution of copper sulfate can be affected by several factors, including the concentration of copper sulfate, the temperature of the solution, and the presence of other substances. Aqueous solutions of copper sulfate have a variety of applications, including as a fungicide, wood preservative, algicide, and electrolyte.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Why is an aqueous solution of copper sulfate acidic?
  2. An aqueous solution of copper sulfate is acidic because of the hydrolysis reaction that occurs when copper sulfate dissolves in water. This reaction produces hydrogen ions (H+), which are responsible for the acidic nature of the solution.

  3. What are some factors that affect the acidity of an aqueous solution of copper sulfate?
  4. Several factors can affect the acidity of an aqueous solution of copper sulfate. These factors include the concentration of copper sulfate, the temperature of the solution, and the presence of other substances.

  5. What are some applications of aqueous solutions of copper sulfate?
  6. Aqueous solutions of copper sulfate have a variety of applications, including as a fungicide, wood preservative, algicide, and electrolyte.

  7. Is copper sulfate safe?
  8. Copper sulfate is generally considered safe when used in small amounts. However, it can be toxic if ingested in large amounts. It is important to follow the directions on the product label when using copper sulfate.

  9. Where can I buy copper sulfate?
  10. Copper sulfate can be purchased at most hardware stores and garden centers.

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