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

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

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

Physical Properties:

Properties Details
AppearanceColorless or white crystals
Boiling PointDecomposes above 200 °C (392 °F)
Chemical FormulaMgSO4 · 7H2O
Crystal SystemOrthorhombic
Density1.68 g/cm³
HygroscopicityHygroscopic (absorbs moisture from the air)
Melting Point150 °C (302 °F)
Molecular Weight246.47 g/mol
OdorOdorless
SolubilityHighly soluble in water; slightly soluble in alcohol

Chemical Properties: 

PropertiesDetails
CombustibilityNon-combustible substance
DecompositionUpon heating, Epsom salt decomposes to release water and anhydrous magnesium sulfate (MgSO4)
Hydrate FormationEpsom salt readily forms hydrated crystals with water molecules, such as the heptahydrate
pHEpsom salt is neutral, with a pH around 7.0
Reaction with AcidsReacts with acids to produce magnesium sulfate and release carbon dioxide
Reaction with AlkalisReacts with alkalis to precipitate insoluble magnesium hydroxide
Reaction with WaterDissolves readily in water, forming a clear, colorless solution
Reducing AgentCan 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.