Copper Sulfate, also known as cupric sulfate, is a chemical compound with the formula CuSO4. This highly soluble, crystalline material plays a vital role in a wide range of industries, with applications spanning from agriculture to public health.

Physical and Chemical Properties

Copper sulfate is an inorganic compound that exists in several forms, each with its own specific physical and chemical properties. Its most common form is the pentahydrate, CuSO4·5H2O, known for its bright blue color. The anhydrous form, CuSO4, is a pale green or gray-white powder.

Copper sulfate is highly soluble in water, and its solutions are acidic. The compound has a melting point of 110°C for the pentahydrate form and decomposes before boiling.

Industrial Applications

Agriculture: Copper sulfate serves as a fungicide and herbicide in the agricultural sector. It’s particularly effective in preventing blight in crops such as tomatoes and potatoes.

Public Health: It plays an essential role in public health, especially in the treatment of water. Copper sulfate can be used to control the growth of algae in reservoirs, as it is toxic to these organisms.

Education: In educational settings, copper sulfate is frequently used in classroom demonstrations and lab experiments, due to its vibrant color changes upon reaction.