What is cobalt sulfate heptahydrate used for? Is cobalt sulfate soluble? What Colour is cobalt sulphate? What is the compound for CoSO4

CoSO₄· 7H₂O 

Cobalt(II) sulfate, often referred to simply as cobalt sulfate, is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula CoSO₄. It typically exists in its hydrated form, with the most common hydrate being the heptahydrate, CoSO₄·7H₂O. Here are some key details about cobalt sulfate:

Properties:

• Appearance:
  • Anhydrous: Red crystalline solid.
  • Heptahydrate: Pink to red crystalline solid.
• Molecular Weight:
  • Anhydrous: 154.996 g/mol.
  • Heptahydrate: 281.10 g/mol.
• Solubility: Soluble in water and methanol; slightly soluble in ethanol.
• Density:
  • Anhydrous: 3.71 g/cm³.
  • Heptahydrate: 2.03 g/cm³.
• Melting Point:
  • Anhydrous: Decomposes before melting.
  • Heptahydrate: 96.8°C (decomposes).

Chemical Behavior:

• Hygroscopic: The anhydrous form readily absorbs moisture from the air, converting to hydrated forms.
• Decomposition: Upon heating, cobalt sulfate heptahydrate loses water molecules and can form the anhydrous compound or decompose further.

Preparation:

Cobalt sulfate can be prepared by:

1. Direct Reaction: Reacting cobalt metal, cobalt oxide, or cobalt hydroxide with sulfuric acid. $$\text{Co} + \text{H}_2\text{SO}_4 \rightarrow \text{CoSO}_4 + \text{H}_2$$
2. By-Product Recovery: As a by-product from the refining of nickel and copper ores.

Uses:

• Agriculture: As a supplement in animal feeds to provide essential cobalt.
• Electroplating: Used in cobalt electroplating baths.
• Pigment: Used in the production of cobalt pigments for ceramics and glass.
• Battery Production: An important precursor in the manufacture of cobalt-containing batteries, such as lithium-ion batteries.
• Catalyst: Utilized in various catalytic processes in the chemical industry.

Safety and Handling:

• Toxicity: Cobalt sulfate is toxic if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. It is also classified as a possible carcinogen. Protective measures should be taken to avoid exposure.
• Environmental Impact: Cobalt compounds can be harmful to aquatic life and ecosystems. Proper disposal and environmental precautions are necessary to mitigate these effects.

Cobalt(II) sulfate is a versatile compound with a range of industrial and agricultural applications. However, due to its toxicity, careful handling and adherence to safety protocols are essential.

Cobalt(II) sulfate is used in storage batteries and electroplating baths for cobalt. It also is used as a dryer for lithographic inks; in pigments for decorating porcelains; in ceramics, glazes, and enamels to protect from discoloring; and as an additive to soils.

How to use Cobalt Sulphate Heptahydrate in the pottery

Hydrated cobalt(II) sulfate is used in the preparation of pigments, as well as in the manufacture of other cobalt salts. Cobalt pigment is used in porcelains and glass.

Formula: CoSO₄ · 7H₂O

Molecular Weight: 281.103 g/mol
Form: red orthorhombic crystals
CAS Number: 10026-24-1
Density: 1.948 g/cm³
Synonyms: Cobaltous sulfate heptahydrate; Cobalt(2+) sulfate hydrate (1:1:7); cobalt sulfate 7-hydrate; Cobalt sulfate heptahydrate; Cobalt monosulfate heptahydrate; sulfuric acid cobalt (2+) salt heptahydrate