Borax

Borax

Borax, also known as sodium borate, sodium tetraborate, or disodium tetraborate, is an important boron compound, a mineral, and a salt of boric acid. It is a white powder consisting of soft colorless crystals that dissolve easily in water. Borax has a wide range of applications, from household cleaning to industrial uses.

Chemical Composition and Structure

Borax is a naturally occurring mineral and a compound of the element boron. Its chemical formula is Na₂B₄O₇·10H₂O, which indicates that it is a hydrated sodium borate. The structure of borax consists of a network of borate ions linked together by sodium ions and water molecules.

Occurrence

Borax is found in evaporite deposits produced by the repeated evaporation of seasonal lakes. The most commercially important deposits are found in the United States, Turkey, and South America. The largest known borax deposits are located in the Mojave Desert in California.

Uses

Borax has a variety of uses in different fields:

• Household Uses: Borax is commonly used as a cleaning agent, laundry booster, and deodorizer. It is effective in removing stains and neutralizing odors.
• Industrial Uses: In industry, borax is used in the manufacture of glass and ceramics, as a flux in metallurgy, and as a fire retardant.
• Agriculture: Borax is used as a micronutrient fertilizer to correct boron-deficient soils.
• Health and Medicine: Although not commonly used in modern medicine, borax has been used historically as an antiseptic and a preservative.

Safety and Toxicity

While borax is generally safe for use in household cleaning, it can be toxic if ingested in large quantities. It can cause skin irritation and should be handled with care. The use of borax in food and cosmetics is restricted in many countries due to potential health risks.

Environmental Impact

Borax is considered to be environmentally friendly when used appropriately. It is a naturally occurring mineral and does not persist in the environment. However, excessive use can lead to soil and water contamination.

Also see

• Boron
• Boric acid
• Sodium carbonate
• Mineral
• Evaporite

Borax

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  Borax crystals

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  Borax chemical structure

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  Borax unit cell 3D balls

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  Borax ball

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  Hauling Borax, Death Valley, 1904

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  Borax

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  Borax wagons

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  Boron mine pit