The chemical formula for zinc sulfate is ZnSO₄.
Zinc sulfate is a significant inorganic compound recognized for its various applications, particularly in medicine and industry. Historically, this substance was known as "white vitriol" due to its appearance and properties.
Understanding Zinc Sulfate's Formula
The formula ZnSO₄ represents the anhydrous form of zinc sulfate, meaning it does not contain water molecules as part of its crystal structure. However, zinc sulfate commonly occurs as a hydrate, where water molecules are incorporated. The most well-known hydrate forms include:
- Zinc Sulfate Heptahydrate (ZnSO₄·7H₂O): This is the most common form, often referred to simply as "zinc sulfate."
- Zinc Sulfate Monohydrate (ZnSO₄·H₂O): Another frequently encountered form.
Despite these hydrate variations, the fundamental chemical unit and the core formula for the zinc sulfate ion itself remain ZnSO₄.
Key Characteristics of Zinc Sulfate
To provide a quick overview, here are some essential details about zinc sulfate:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | ZnSO₄ |
| Compound Type | Inorganic Compound |
| Historical Name | "White Vitriol" |
| Medical Importance | On the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines |
| PubChem Link | Zinc Sulfate (ZnSO₄) |
Importance and Applications
Zinc sulfate holds considerable importance, especially in healthcare. It is recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as an essential medicine, highlighting its critical role in a basic health system.
Common applications and insights include:
- Nutritional Supplementation: Zinc is an essential trace element for human health. Zinc sulfate is often used to treat and prevent zinc deficiencies, which can impact immune function, wound healing, and growth.
- Diarrhea Treatment: In many parts of the world, zinc sulfate supplements are a recommended treatment for acute diarrhea in children, significantly reducing the severity and duration of episodes.
- Agricultural Uses: It is also used in agriculture as a fertilizer to correct zinc deficiencies in plants, crucial for healthy crop development.
- Industrial Applications: Zinc sulfate finds use in various industrial processes, including in the production of rayon, as a mordant in dyeing, and as a preservative.
