Sulfate

Sulfate is an inorganic anion derived from sulfuric acid. It consists of one central sulfur atom surrounded by four equivalent oxygen atoms in a tetrahedral arrangement. The sulfate ion carries a negative two charge and is the conjugate base of the bisulfate (or hydrogen sulfate) ion, HSO₄⁻, which is the conjugate base of H₂SO₄, sulfuric acid.

Properties

Sulfate is a stable species in many environments in the Earth's crust and in seawater. It can be transported by particles in the atmosphere. Sulfate occurs in various minerals, including barite (BaSO₄) and gypsum (CaSO₄·2H₂O).

Uses

Sulfates are important in geology, biology, and industry. They are used in detergents, glass and ceramic glazes, and pigments. In medicine, they are used as laxatives and in the treatment of iron-deficiency anemia.

Health effects

Ingesting too much sulfate can lead to diarrhea, as the body will try to rid itself of the excess sulfate. Breathing in sulfate particles can cause respiratory problems.

See also

• Sulfite
• Sulfonate
• Sulfur cycle

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