Sodium selenite

Sodium Selenite

Sodium selenite (pronunciation: /ˈsoʊdiəm sɪˈlaɪnaɪt/) is an inorganic compound with the formula Na2SeO3. It is a colorless solid, and is one of the most common water-soluble forms of selenium.

Etymology

The term "sodium" originates from the English word "soda". The term "selenite" comes from the Greek word "selēnē", meaning moon, due to its pale color.

Chemical Properties

Sodium selenite is a hygroscopic material, which means it readily absorbs moisture from the environment. It is highly soluble in water, but not in alcohol. It is also a strong oxidizing agent.

Uses

Sodium selenite is used in a variety of applications. It is used in the glass industry to decolorize glass and to make red and yellow glass. It is also used as a supplement in animal feeds to promote growth and fertility. In medicine, it is used as a source of selenium, which is an essential trace mineral.

Health Effects

Exposure to sodium selenite can cause a variety of health effects. Ingestion can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Long-term exposure can lead to selenosis, a condition characterized by hair loss, nail changes, and nerve damage.

Related Terms

• Selenium
• Selenosis
• Oxidizing agent
• Hygroscopic

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Sodium selenite
• Wikipedia's article - Sodium selenite

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