Editing Iodate

{{Short description|An article about the iodate ion in chemistry}}

== Iodate ==

[[File:iodate_anion.svg|thumb|right|150px|Structure of the iodate ion]]

The '''iodate''' ion is a polyatomic ion with the chemical formula IO__. It is the conjugate base of [[iodic acid]] (HIO_) and is commonly encountered in various chemical reactions and compounds. The iodate ion is an important species in [[inorganic chemistry]] and is known for its oxidizing properties.

== Structure ==

The iodate ion consists of one [[iodine]] atom centrally bonded to three [[oxygen]] atoms in a trigonal pyramidal arrangement. The iodine atom is in the +5 oxidation state, and the ion carries a net charge of -1. The geometry of the iodate ion is similar to that of the [[chlorate]] and [[bromate]] ions, which are also oxyanions of the halogens.

== Properties ==

Iodate ions are strong oxidizing agents and can participate in various redox reactions. They are stable in aqueous solutions and can be reduced to iodide ions (I_) or oxidized to periodate ions (IO__) under appropriate conditions. The iodate ion is less reactive than the [[hypoiodite]] (IO_) and [[iodite]] (IO__) ions but more reactive than the periodate ion.

== Occurrence ==

Iodate ions are found naturally in some minerals and are also produced industrially. They are used in the production of [[iodized salt]], where potassium iodate (KIO_) is added to table salt to prevent [[iodine deficiency]].

== Uses ==

Iodate compounds are used in various applications, including:

* As an oxidizing agent in analytical chemistry.
* In the food industry as a source of iodine in iodized salt.
* In the synthesis of other iodine-containing compounds.

== Related pages ==

* [[Iodine]]
* [[Iodide]]
* [[Iodic acid]]
* [[Periodate]]
* [[Halogen oxyanions]]

[[Category:Polyatomic ions]]
[[Category:Iodine compounds]]
[[Category:Oxyanions]]