Overview

Copper(II) sulfate (KOPP-er two SUL-fate) is a white crystalline powder in its anhydrous state, although it occurs most commonly as the pentahydrate, CuSO₄·5H₂O, which is a blue granular crystalline solid. When the pentahydrate is heated, it loses its water of hydration and returns to its white, powdery anhydrous state. The transition between its white anhydrous form and its blue hydrated form is sometimes used in devices and toys that indicate the presence or absence of moisture in the air.

Copper(II) sulfate is probably the most important and most widely used of all copper compounds. It is used in agriculture, the paints and covering industry, in electrical applications, in the production of other chemicals, and in other industrial and commercial applications.

Key Facts

Other Names:

Cupric sulfate; blue vitriol; blue stone; blue copperas

Formula:

CuSO₄

Elements:

Copper, sulfur, oxygen

Compound Type: