Anhydrous Sodium Sulfate

Anhydrous sodium sulfate is a white crystalline solid with the chemical formula Na2SO4. It is an inorganic salt that is highly soluble in water and insoluble in most organic solvents. Anhydrous sodium sulfate is typically prepared by heating the hydrated form, known as decahydrate (Na2SO4·10H2O), to a temperature of around 300°C to remove the water molecules.

Anhydrous sodium sulfate has a variety of applications, including as a drying agent in organic synthesis and as a filler in detergents and cleaning products. It is also used in the manufacture of glass, textile dyes, and paper.

One important consideration when working with anhydrous sodium sulfate is that it can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system if it is not handled properly. It should therefore be handled with care, and appropriate protective equipment should be worn during use.

In terms of its chemical properties, anhydrous sodium sulfate is an ionic compound that dissociates into sodium ions (Na+) and sulfate ions (SO42-) in aqueous solutions. It has a molar mass of 142.04 g/mol, a melting point of 884°C, and a density of 2.664 g/cm3 at room temperature.

Overall, anhydrous sodium sulfate is an important industrial chemical with a range of practical applications, but it requires careful handling due to its potentially hazardous nature.