Study Guides/Chemistry/Al2(SO4)3 Chemical Name
Study Guide · Chemistry

Chemical Name and Properties of Al2(SO4)3

Chemical formulas tell us exactly which elements make up a compound and in what ratios. The formula $Al_2(SO_4)_3$ is an important ionic compound widely used in industries.

Question (Click to Flip)

What happens when Aluminum Sulfate is added to muddy water?

Answer

It causes the fine suspended clay particles to clump together (coagulation) and sink to the bottom, clearing the water.

Card 1 of 1 free previews

Key Facts

Aluminum Sulfate is highly soluble in water.

When dissolved in water, it creates a mildly acidic solution.

It is commonly referred to in Hindi as 'Phitkari' (Alum), though technically Alum is a double salt containing aluminum sulfate.

1. Chemical Name

The chemical name for $Al_2(SO_4)_3$ is Aluminum Sulfate (or Aluminium Sulphate).

  • Al stands for the Aluminum ion ($Al^{3+}$).
  • $SO_4$ stands for the Sulfate polyatomic ion ($SO_4^{2-}$).

2. How is the Formula Formed?

Aluminum has a valency of +3. Sulfate has a valency of -2. Using the crisscross method to balance the charges, we need two Aluminum ions to balance three Sulfate ions: $2 \times (+3) = +6$ and $3 \times (-2) = -6$. Hence, $Al_2(SO_4)_3$.

3. Common Uses

  • Water Purification: It is widely used as a coagulant in water treatment plants to make impurities clump together and settle down.
  • Paper Making: Used in the manufacturing of paper to improve ink binding.
  • Dyeing: Acts as a mordant in dyeing cloth.

Questions and Answers

What happens when Aluminum Sulfate is added to muddy water?+

It causes the fine suspended clay particles to clump together (coagulation) and sink to the bottom, clearing the water.

More in Chemistry

Study Smarter with Shinyu.ai

Turn this guide into revision flashcards, a practice exam, or an AI-generated podcast — free, no signup required.