What Does sulfate Mean
The Latin term sulfur , which can be translated as "sulfur," derived from sulfate . It is the salt , either organic or mineral, that makes up sulfuric acid (a chemical compound with the formula H2SO4 ).
It can be said, therefore, that the salts that form a sulfuric acid are called sulfates. These salts are made up of four oxygen atoms that surround a sulfur atom located in the center .
Other information of interest about sulfate are the following:
-Sulfate can be found in almost all waters that are natural.
-It is important to determine that an excessive presence of the aforementioned element in the water can cause the person who drinks that drink to go to the bathroom much more than usual. And it has a laxative power.
-It is established, by the European Union, that the maximum sulfate in water for human consumption must be 250 mg / l. If the amount is higher, it can not only be harmful to health but, in addition, it can cause the water to be drunk with a really bitter taste.
In the case of organic sulfates , they develop from an alcohol and sulfuryl chloride with a base or from an alcohol and sulfuric acid. In general, these types of elements are carcinogenic.
The inorganic sulfates arise from the oxidation of certain sulfides (sulfur plus a radical or a chemical element). At a natural level it can be found as barite, gypsum or another substance.
The aluminum sulfate , for example, is used as a coagulant or purifying water . To obtain this sulfate, aluminum hydroxide must be dissolved in sulfuric acid.
Calcium sulfate , whose formula is CaSO4, is also used as a coagulant . The potassium sulfate or arcanite, meanwhile, is a crystalline solid that is often used as fertilizer inorganic type.
Another widely used sulfate is magnesium sulfate . In the field of medicine , it is used to reduce inflammation and relax muscles. Also gardeners and farmers turn to this sulfate when they need to add magnesium to the soil . Due to its high solubility, magnesium sulfate is a better option over other classes of magnesium additives.
In addition to the different types of sulfates already highlighted, we can mention other equally relevant ones such as these:
-Sodium sulfate, also called sodium sulfate, which stands out for being colorless and is used for a long list of functions such as an additive in the manufacture of what is glass, as a desiccant element in the different industries of the chemical sector, as a disinfectant and even as a component in the manufacture of cellulose.
-Ammonium sulfate, which is identified by having the appearance of crystals and a remarkable white color. As a general rule, it is used as a flocculant and has become one of the perfect allies of many farmers when it comes to ensuring that the land is in perfect condition to get the best vegetables. However, it should not be overlooked that it is called diammonium sulfate, ammonium sulfate, dolamin and actamaster.