What Are The Physical And Chemical Properties Of Sodium Tungstate?

Sodium tungstate is a white crystalline solid with the chemical formula Na2WO4. It has a melting point of 1,464°C and a density of 3.2 g/cm3. Sodium tungstate is soluble in water and slightly soluble in alcohol.

Chemically, sodium tungstate is a salt that contains the tungstate anion (WO42-) and the sodium cation (Na+). It is a strong oxidizing agent and can react violently with reducing agents, including combustible materials.

Sodium tungstate is commonly used as a catalyst for various chemical reactions, including the production of hydrogen peroxide and the synthesis of acrylic acid. It is also used in the manufacture of tungsten metal and its alloys, as well as in the production of pigments and dyes.

In addition to its chemical properties, sodium tungstate exhibits notable physical properties. For example, it is highly hygroscopic, meaning it readily absorbs moisture from the air. This can cause it to clump or become sticky, which can make it difficult to handle. Sodium tungstate is also sensitive to heat and can decompose at high temperatures, releasing toxic gases such as tungsten oxide.

Overall, sodium tungstate is a useful and versatile compound with unique physical and chemical properties that make it suitable for a variety of applications in industry and research.