Epsom salt [Chemical formula, Physical, Chemical Properties and Reactions]

By: Prof. Dr. Fazal Rehman | Last updated: February 3, 2024

Epsom salt, also known as magnesium sulfate, has chemical formula of MgSO4·7H2O.

Physical Properties:

Properties Details
Appearance Colorless or white crystals
Boiling Point Decomposes above 200 °C (392 °F)
Chemical Formula MgSO4 · 7H2O
Crystal System Orthorhombic
Density 1.68 g/cm³
Hygroscopicity Hygroscopic (absorbs moisture from the air)
Melting Point 150 °C (302 °F)
Molecular Weight 246.47 g/mol
Odor Odorless
Solubility Highly soluble in water; slightly soluble in alcohol

Chemical Properties: 

Properties Details
Combustibility Non-combustible substance
Decomposition Upon heating, Epsom salt decomposes to release water and anhydrous magnesium sulfate (MgSO4)
Hydrate Formation Epsom salt readily forms hydrated crystals with water molecules, such as the heptahydrate
pH Epsom salt is neutral, with a pH around 7.0
Reaction with Acids Reacts with acids to produce magnesium sulfate and release carbon dioxide
Reaction with Alkalis Reacts with alkalis to precipitate insoluble magnesium hydroxide
Reaction with Water Dissolves readily in water, forming a clear, colorless solution
Reducing Agent Can act as a mild reducing agent in certain chemical reactions

Reactions of epsom salt

Epsom salt did not show any significant reaction with other element.

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