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.