Bismuth(III) Formate

Bismuth(III) formate is a chemical compound with the formula Bi(HCOO)3. It is composed of one bismuth ion (Bi3+) and three formate ions (HCOO-), arranged in a crystal lattice structure. Bismuth(III) formate is a white or off-white crystalline solid that is soluble in water.

Bismuth(III) formate is commonly used as a precursor for the synthesis of other bismuth-containing compounds. It can be prepared by reacting bismuth oxide or bismuth nitrate with formic acid:

Bi2O3 + 6 HCOOH → 2 Bi(HCOO)3 + 3 H2O

Bi(NO3)3 + 3 HCOOH → Bi(HCOO)3 + 3 HNO3

The resulting product can be purified by recrystallization from water. Bismuth(III) formate is stable under normal conditions, but it decomposes when heated to temperatures above 200 °C, releasing carbon dioxide and forming bismuth oxide.

In summary, bismuth(III) formate is a white or off-white crystalline solid composed of one bismuth ion and three formate ions. It is commonly used as a precursor for the synthesis of other bismuth-containing compounds and can be prepared by reacting bismuth oxide or bismuth nitrate with formic acid.