Beryllium Sulfate Trihydrate

Beryllium sulfate trihydrate is a chemical compound with the molecular formula BeSO4·3H2O. It consists of one beryllium ion, one sulfur ion, four oxygen ions, and three water molecules. The beryllium ion has a +2 charge, while the sulfur ion has a +6 charge.

Beryllium sulfate trihydrate is a white crystalline solid that is highly soluble in water. It is commonly used as a source of beryllium for industrial applications, such as ceramics, electronics, and aerospace. It is also used in laboratory settings for analytical chemistry and research purposes.

The crystal structure of beryllium sulfate trihydrate is orthorhombic, meaning it has three axes of different lengths that are perpendicular to each other. The unit cell contains one beryllium sulfate trihydrate molecule and has a space group of Pna21. The bond between the beryllium ion and the sulfate ion is covalent, while the bonds between the water molecules and the beryllium ion are electrostatic in nature.

Due to its toxicity, beryllium sulfate trihydrate should be handled with care and proper safety precautions should be taken when working with it. Long-term exposure to beryllium can cause lung cancer and other respiratory ailments, so adequate ventilation and personal protective equipment should be used when handling this compound.