Barium Dichromate

Barium dichromate, also known as barium chromate (VI), is a chemical compound with the formula BaCrO4. It is a yellow crystalline solid that is insoluble in water and organic solvents.

Barium dichromate is commonly used as a corrosion inhibitor and in pyrotechnics due to its bright yellow-green color when heated. However, it is considered toxic and carcinogenic, and prolonged exposure can lead to respiratory issues and other health problems.

When heated, barium dichromate decomposes into barium oxide, chromium trioxide, and oxygen gas according to the following equation:

2BaCrO4 → 2BaO + CrO3 + O2

Barium dichromate can be prepared by mixing solutions of barium chloride and sodium dichromate, which forms a yellow precipitate of barium dichromate that can be filtered and dried.