How to multiply chemical compounds together?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the notation and interpretation of the chemical compound CuSO4 · 5H2O, particularly in the context of a homework problem involving the calculation of the mass of each element in the compound. Participants explore the meaning of "multiplying" compounds and the significance of the hydrate notation.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about the term "multiply" in relation to chemical compounds, indicating a lack of understanding of the notation.
  • Another participant suggests that the notation refers to a hydrate, specifically a copper-sulphate crystal with water associated with it.
  • A participant notes that the task involves finding the mass of each element in the given formula, prompting further clarification on the context.
  • One participant emphasizes the importance of providing a complete problem statement to facilitate better assistance.
  • Another participant explains that the notation indicates that each copper-sulphate molecule is associated with five water molecules, describing the properties of the penta-hydrate form and its transformation upon heating.
  • A later reply reiterates that the dot notation represents water of crystallization and highlights the importance of calculating the weight based on CuSO4 · 5H2O for preparing a 1M solution.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the interpretation of the notation as representing a hydrate, but there remains some uncertainty regarding the specific context of the homework problem and the term "multiply." The discussion does not reach a consensus on the best approach to the problem.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note the need for additional context regarding the homework problem, which may affect the interpretation of the notation and the calculations required. There is also a mention of the potential confusion surrounding the terminology used in the assignment.

PhizKid
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Homework Statement


[itex]CuSO_4 \cdot 5H_20[/itex]


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


We never learned this. I don't even know what it means to "multiply" compounds together...doesn't make any sense to me
 
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In what context are you seeing this notation?

I suspect what you are seeing is the notation for a hydrate - a copper-sulphate crystal with water in it.
 
it says to find the mass of each element. then that formula is given
 
If you give a complete problem statement, your chances of receiving help will increase.
 
Well ... that notation normally means that each copper-sulphate molecule has 5 water molecules associated with it in the lattice. Copper-sulphate is a penta-hydrate ... heat the crystal and you see steam comes off, and you end up with anhydrous copper sulphate, which is a white powder. The water gives it that characteristic blue rhomboid crystal.

it says to find the mass of each element. then that formula is given
That's the raw question - but what is the context?
You are doing a chemistry course and they have reach a particular topic involving...
The mass of each element ... present... in a crystal ... in a particular concentration of solution...

Anyway:
The penta-hydrate copper sulphate compound would have 9 oxygen atoms for example... 5 from the water and 4 from the copper-sulphate.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Copper(II)_sulfate
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydrate
 
Last edited:
PhizKid said:

Homework Statement


[itex]CuSO_4 \cdot 5H_20[/itex]
I believe this has been well explained. The dot and the right side represents the water of crystallisation.

If you need to mix a 1M solution of copper sulphate, you need to know how much to weigh out. It is important that you calculate the weight based on CuSO4•5H2O and add that to a flask of water then top it up to the 1 litre mark.

Your solution would not be 1M if you kept to the formula CuSO4 when using blue crystals of copper sulphate (these being CuSO4•5H2O, the common form of copper sulphate).
 

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