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Bismuth trioxide

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Identification
Molecular formula
Bi2O3
CAS number
1304-76-3
IUPAC name
oxobismuthane
State
State

At room temperature, bismuth trioxide is a solid.

Melting point (Celsius)
817.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
1 090.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
1 837.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
2 110.00
General information
Molecular weight
465.96g/mol
Molar mass
465.9600g/mol
Density
8.9000g/cm3
Appearence

Bismuth trioxide appears as a pale yellow to orange-colored powder. The substance is fine and crystalline, depending on its form, it can display slight differences in coloration.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Oxobismuthane

Oxobismuthane (Bi2O3) exhibits unique solubility characteristics that are pivotal to its applications. Understanding its solubility can provide insights into its chemical behavior and potential uses:

  • Solubility in Water: Oxobismuthane is generally insoluble in water. This is a common trait among metal oxides, which often show limited interaction with polar solvents like water.
  • Solubility in Acids: It is known to be more soluble in acidic solutions. The presence of protons can facilitate reactions that will allow oxobismuthane to dissolve, particularly in strong acids like hydrochloric acid.
  • Solubility in Bases: Interestingly, oxobismuthane may also react in basic environments, leading to the formation of soluble bismuth compounds.
  • Influence of Temperature: The solubility can be affected by temperature, with increased thermal energy potentially enhancing solubility in acidic conditions.
  • Applications: Understanding its solubility is crucial for its application in ceramics, pharmaceuticals, and as a fundamental compound in advanced materials.

In summary, while oxobismuthane is typically insoluble in water, its behavior in acidic and basic environments is of great interest. As one researcher noted, "The interaction of oxobismuthane with various solvents opens up avenues for innovative applications." This highlights the importance of solubility in determining how this unique compound can be utilized effectively in various fields.

Interesting facts

Exploring Oxobismuthane

Oxobismuthane is a fascinating chemical compound that showcases the diversity of bismuth chemistry. As a molecular species that includes the element bismuth (Bi), this compound is notable for several reasons:

  • Unique Oxidation State: Oxobismuthane features bismuth in a higher oxidation state, which is less common compared to its more stable oxidation states. This property can lead to interesting reactivity patterns.
  • Biological Relevance: Compounds of bismuth have drawn attention for their potential applications in medicine, particularly in treating gastrointestinal disorders. Its derivatives are used in products like Pepto-Bismol.
  • Catalytic Potential: There is growing research focused on the catalytic properties of bismuth-based compounds. Oxobismuthane may contribute to advancements in catalytic processes in organic synthesis.
  • Environmental Aspect: As a heavy metal, the behavior of bismuth compounds in the environment is a topic of interest. Studying oxobismuthane could provide insights into the mobility and toxicity of bismuth in ecological settings.
  • Electronic Properties: Bismuth compounds are known for their interesting electronic structures. Oxobismuthane and its derivatives might exhibit unique electrical conductivity, making them candidates for potential applications in electronic devices.

Researchers are continually investigating the potential applications and mechanisms associated with oxobismuthane. From medicinal chemistry to materials science, this compound exemplifies the importance of understanding the properties of lesser-known compounds in the broader context of chemistry. It is a reminder of how chemistry can bridge the gap between fundamental research and real-world applications.