Understanding Polyatomic Ions: Sulfite & Sulfate

Thread starter Bashyboy
Start date Oct 4, 2011
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Ions

In summary, polyatomic ions are charged particles composed of two or more atoms that act as a single unit. Sulfite and sulfate ions have different chemical formulas and differ in the number of oxygen atoms attached to the sulfur atom. They are used in various industries and can be formed through different reactions. While they can have harmful effects on the environment, they also have important roles in biochemical processes.

Oct 4, 2011

Bashyboy

How come polyatomic ions--for instance, sulfite and sulfate--have the same net charge?

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Oct 4, 2011

Bloodthunder

You can see the ions here and how they are bonded, giving them their charge.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sulfate
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sulfite

Google is your friend.

1. What is a polyatomic ion?

A polyatomic ion is a charged particle composed of two or more atoms that are covalently bonded and act as a single unit. They have an overall charge due to the gain or loss of electrons.

2. How do sulfite and sulfate ions differ?

Sulfite ions have the chemical formula SO3^2- and sulfate ions have the chemical formula SO4^2-. The difference between them is the number of oxygen atoms attached to the sulfur atom. Sulfite ions have three oxygen atoms, while sulfate ions have four.

3. What are the uses of sulfite and sulfate ions?

Sulfite ions are commonly used as preservatives in food and beverages, as well as in the production of paper and textiles. Sulfate ions are important components in fertilizers, detergents, and various industrial processes.

4. How are sulfite and sulfate ions formed?

Sulfite ions are formed when sulfur dioxide (SO2) reacts with water in acidic conditions. Sulfate ions are formed when sulfur trioxide (SO3) reacts with water in basic conditions. They can also be formed through the oxidation of sulfur-containing compounds.

5. Are sulfite and sulfate ions harmful to the environment?

Both sulfite and sulfate ions can have negative effects on the environment. Sulfite ions can contribute to acid rain, while sulfate ions can lead to eutrophication in bodies of water. However, they are also naturally occurring and play important roles in biochemical processes in living organisms.