Today, we will be studying Al2(SO4)3, also known as the chemical compound of aluminum and sulfur. This is a type of salt compound known in English as Aluminium Sulfate.
In terms of atomic mass, Al2(SO4)3 has a mass of 342.15 g/mol. Its molecular structure consists of 2 aluminum atoms (Al), 3 sulfur atoms (S), and 12 oxygen atoms (O). In a water environment, Al2(SO4)3 will form Al3+ ions and SO4 2- ions.
The physical properties of Al2(SO4)3: it is a solid, white substance, odorless and has a PH range from 2.5 to 3.0 when dissolved in water, it is a weak acid.
Regarding chemical properties, Al2(SO4)3 can react with alkali metals to form salts and hydrogen gas, for example, reacting with sodium or potassium. It can also react with strong acids to form other salts and sulfur gas.
Common chemical equations of Al2(SO4)3:
- Reaction with metal Na: 2Al2(SO4)3 + 6Na -> 2Na3Al(SO4)3
- Reaction with acid HCl: Al2(SO4)3 + 6HCl -> 2AlCl3 + 3H2SO4
Synthesis of Al2(SO4)3: in the laboratory, you can synthesize Al2(SO4)3 by reacting aluminum with sulfuric acid.
Equation: 2Al + 3H2SO4 -> Al2(SO4)3 + 3H2
Besides, Al2(SO4)3 is also produced on an industrial scale by smelting bauxite with sulfuric acid.