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Sodium Selenite

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Identification
Molecular formula
Na2SeO3
CAS number
10102-18-8
IUPAC name
selenite
State
State

Sodium selenite is typically found in a solid state at room temperature. It is commonly in the form of a crystalline powder.

Melting point (Celsius)
710.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
983.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
710.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
983.15
General information
Molecular weight
172.94g/mol
Molar mass
172.9430g/mol
Density
3.0970g/cm3
Appearence

Sodium selenite typically appears as a white to off-white, crystalline powder. It is odorless and hygroscopic, meaning it tends to absorb moisture from the air.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Selenite (Na2SeO3)

Selenite, represented by the chemical formula Na2SeO3, exhibits interesting solubility characteristics that are important for its various applications. Here are some key points regarding its solubility:

  • Water Solubility: Selenite is known to be highly soluble in water, allowing easy incorporation into aqueous solutions.
  • Solvent Interaction: When dissolved, it dissociates into sodium ions (Na+) and selenite ions (SeO32-), facilitating its interaction with other compounds.
  • pH Dependence: The solubility of Na2SeO3 may vary with changes in pH, generally remaining soluble across a range of conditions.
  • Comparison to Other Selenides: Unlike many selenides which are often insoluble, selenite's solubility makes it a valuable compound in both environmental and health sciences.

Overall, the highly soluble nature of selenite in water allows for its accessibility in various scientific and industrial applications. Its unique properties warrant further investigation, particularly in fields relating to biogeochemistry and agriculture.

Interesting facts

Discovering Selenite (Na2SeO3)

Selenite, also referred to as sodium selenite, is a fascinating inorganic compound that has a variety of applications, particularly in the fields of chemistry and biology. Here are some interesting aspects worth noting:

Properties and Reactions

  • Oxidation State: In selenite, selenium is found in the +4 oxidation state, which is a crucial aspect when considering its reactivity and role in various chemical processes.
  • Reactions with Acids: Selenite readily reacts with acids, forming selenious acid, a key interaction that highlights its utility in acid-base chemistry.
  • Complex Formation: It can form complexes with metals, which opens up paths to explore its oxidative behaviors and potential catalysis applications.

Biological Significance

  • Essential Micronutrient: Selenite is an important source of selenium, a trace element that is vital for various biological functions in organisms.
  • Antioxidant Properties: Research suggests that selenium compounds, including selenite, possess antioxidant properties that can help combat oxidative stress in cells.

Applications

  • Laboratory Use: Selenite is commonly utilized in laboratory settings, especially in biological assays to study cellular responses to selenium.
  • Supplementation: Due to its biological significance, sodium selenite is sometimes used in dietary supplements aimed at improving selenium intake.

In summary, selenite is not just a simple compound; it has a rich chemical profile and significant biological implications. As a chemist or a student, understanding selenite deepens our appreciation of how elements like selenium contribute to both chemistry and life itself. Its dual role in basic chemistry and its potential benefits in nutrition and health underscore the interconnectedness of various scientific disciplines.

Synonyms
selenite
Selenite ion
14124-67-5
Selenite (SeO32-)
UNII-KXO0259XJ1
Selenite ion(2-)
KXO0259XJ1
SELENITE ANION
Selenite ion (SeO32-)
Selenit
trioxoselenate(IV)
trioxoselenate(2-)
Selenite8147
trioxidoselenate(2-)
Selenium (IV) trioxide
DTXSID9074517
SeO3(2-)
CHEBI:18212
[SeO3](2-)
C05684
Q27102911