Zinc Sulphate Monohydrate Molecular Weight

Zinc sulfate monohydrate is a widely used inorganic compound with applications in agriculture, medicine, and industry. One of the key properties of this compound is its molecular weight, which plays an important role in determining its chemical behavior, dosage calculations, and industrial applications.

This topic will explore the molecular weight of zinc sulfate monohydrate, how it is calculated, and why it matters in various industries.

What is Zinc Sulfate Monohydrate?

Chemical Formula and Structure

The chemical formula of zinc sulfate monohydrate is ZnSO₄·H₂O. This formula indicates that the compound consists of:

• Zinc (Zn²⁺) – A metal ion with a +2 charge.

• Sulfate (SO₄²⁻) – A polyatomic ion with a -2 charge.

• One Water Molecule (H₂O) – A single molecule of water, known as water of crystallization.

Physical and Chemical Properties

• Appearance: White crystalline powder or granules.

• Solubility: Highly soluble in water.

• Melting Point: Decomposes before reaching a specific melting point.

• Density: 3.28 g/cm³.

• Uses: Found in fertilizers, animal feed, dietary supplements, and industrial processes.

Molecular Weight of Zinc Sulfate Monohydrate

How to Calculate Molecular Weight

To find the molecular weight of ZnSO₄·H₂O, we sum the atomic weights of its elements:

• Zinc (Zn) = 65.38 g/mol

• Sulfur (S) = 32.07 g/mol

• Oxygen (O₄ in sulfate) = 4 à 16.00 g/mol = 64.00 g/mol

• Hydrogen (H₂ in water) = 2 à 1.008 g/mol = 2.016 g/mol

• Oxygen (O in water) = 16.00 g/mol

Total Molecular Weight Calculation

Thus, the molecular weight of zinc sulfate monohydrate is approximately 179.46 g/mol.

Importance of Molecular Weight

1. Pharmaceutical and Nutritional Uses

• Zinc sulfate monohydrate is commonly used in dietary supplements to treat zinc deficiency.

• Knowing its molecular weight helps in precise dosage calculations.

• Ensures safe and effective formulation in medications.

2. Agricultural and Fertilizer Applications

• Used as a micronutrient fertilizer to supply zinc to plants.

• Molecular weight helps determine the amount needed per hectare.

3. Industrial and Chemical Applications

• Used in electroplating, textile processing, and water treatment.

• Molecular weight is important for chemical reactions and formulations.

4. Laboratory and Research Applications

• Essential in scientific calculations and experiments.

• Used in solution preparations and analytical chemistry.

Comparison with Other Forms of Zinc Sulfate

Zinc sulfate exists in different hydration states, each with a different molecular weight.

• Heptahydrate (ZnSO₄·7H₂O) has a higher molecular weight due to 7 water molecules.

• Anhydrous ZnSO₄ has a lower molecular weight because it lacks water.

Solubility and Stability of Zinc Sulfate Monohydrate

Solubility in Water

• Highly soluble in water, making it easy to mix in fertilizers, medicine, and industrial solutions.

• Dissolves faster than anhydrous zinc sulfate due to its hydration state.

Stability and Storage

• Stable under normal conditions but should be kept in a dry, airtight container.

• Exposure to moisture may lead to hydration changes, affecting weight and composition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between zinc sulfate monohydrate and heptahydrate?

• Monohydrate (ZnSO₄·H₂O) contains one water molecule.

• Heptahydrate (ZnSO₄·7H₂O) contains seven water molecules, making it heavier.

2. How does molecular weight affect dosing in medicine?

• Molecular weight helps in calculating the exact amount of zinc sulfate needed per dose.

• Ensures safe and effective zinc supplementation.

3. Why is zinc sulfate monohydrate preferred in fertilizers?

• Easier to handle and store compared to heptahydrate.

• Provides a stable and efficient source of zinc for crops.

4. Can zinc sulfate monohydrate absorb moisture?

• Yes, it can absorb moisture from the air, which may affect its weight and concentration.

• Should be stored in a sealed container to maintain stability.

Zinc sulfate monohydrate (ZnSO₄·H₂O) has a molecular weight of 179.46 g/mol, making it useful in medicine, agriculture, and industry. Understanding its molecular weight helps in accurate dosing, chemical reactions, and formulation of fertilizers.

Its high solubility in water, stability, and effectiveness make it a valuable compound for many applications.

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