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Thiosulfuric acid

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Identification
Molecular formula
H2S2O3
CAS number
13940-81-1
IUPAC name
sulfurothioic S-acid
State
State

At room temperature, thiosulfuric acid is typically not found in its pure form. It is usually handled in aqueous solutions or observed as its salts, such as sodium thiosulfate, which are solid. The pure acid, if isolated, is assumed to be a liquid or potentially solid at room temperature, but it decomposes readily.

Melting point (Celsius)
-1.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
272.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
-1.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
272.15
General information
Molecular weight
114.13g/mol
Molar mass
114.1310g/mol
Density
1.4600g/cm3
Appearence

Thiosulfuric acid itself is unstable and difficult to observe in pure form. However, its salts, known as thiosulfates, are more stable and typically appear as crystalline solids. If hypothetically isolated, thiosulfuric acid would likely be an oily liquid or a crystalline solid, but it is not commonly encountered in this form due to its instability.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Sulfurothioic S-Acid (H2S2O3)

Sulfurothioic S-acid, represented by the chemical formula H2S2O3, is an intriguing compound with a distinct solubility profile. Here are the key points regarding its solubility:

  • Water Solubility: H2S2O3 is notable for its high solubility in water. This characteristic makes it a useful compound in various chemical applications where aqueous solutions are necessary.
  • Influence of Temperature: As with many other substances, the solubility of sulfurothioic S-acid may increase with temperature. Warmer temperatures typically enhance the solubility of solutes in solvents.
  • Acidity and Ionization: The compound dissociates in solution, yielding sulfide ions and protons, which can influence its behavior in various chemical environments. The extent of ionization can depend on the pH of the solution, highlighting the role of acidity in solubility.
  • Precipitation Tendency: H2S2O3 can react with certain metal ions to form insoluble precipitates. This precipitation behavior is vital in contexts where sulfide complexes may form.

In summary, the solubility of sulfurothioic S-acid in water and its behavior in various conditions make it a compound of considerable interest in the realm of chemistry. Its ability to interact with other chemical species underlines the necessity to consider solubility in practical applications.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Sulfurothioic S-Acid

Sulfurothioic S-acid, commonly referred to as hydrogen sulfite or bisulfite, is a fascinating compound that plays a significant role in various chemical processes. Here are some key aspects of this intriguing compound:

  • Unique Composition: Composed of sulfur, oxygen, and hydrogen, sulfurothioic S-acid exhibits a distinctive chemical structure that is essential in many biological and industrial reactions.
  • Biological Importance: This compound is vital in metabolic processes, including the detoxification of harmful substances in living organisms, showcasing its relevance in biochemistry.
  • Common Uses: Sulfurothioic S-acid is widely utilized in food preservation, acting as an effective antioxidant and antimicrobial agent. It helps extend the shelf life of various products, especially in the wine and dried fruit industries.
  • Environmental Considerations: Due to its reducing properties, sulfurothioic S-acid can neutralize pollutants, being evaluated for its potential use in environmental remediation.
  • Interesting Reactions: This compound participates in an array of chemical reactions, including the formation of sulfite esters and its behavior in redox reactions, which highlights its versatility in organic synthesis.

As a scientist or chemistry student, understanding the multifaceted nature of sulfurothioic S-acid not only enhances our grasp of chemistry but also opens doors to innovative applications in health, food technology, and environmental science. As one researcher noted, “The ability of sulfurothioic S-acid to act as both a reactant and a stabilizer underscores its dual role in chemistry.”

This compound exemplifies how a single molecule can influence diverse fields, making it a significant topic of study for those passionate about the chemical sciences.