0.1M Sodium Thiosulphate Solution: Properties and Uses
What is Sodium Thiosulphate?
Sodium thiosulphate, also known as sodium hyposulfite, is a chemical compound with the formula Na2S2O3. It is a white or colorless crystalline solid that is highly soluble in water. Sodium thiosulphate is widely used in various industries, including photography, medicine, and wastewater treatment.
Properties of 0.1M Sodium Thiosulphate Solution
A 0.1M sodium thiosulphate solution is a solution that contains 0.1 moles of sodium thiosulphate per liter of solution. This solution has a pH range of around 6-7, which makes it slightly acidic to neutral.
Here are some of the key properties of 0.1M sodium thiosulphate solution:
Physical Properties
- Appearance: Colorless or pale yellow liquid
- Odor: Slightly acidic or sulfurous
- pH: 6-7
- Density: Approximately 1.05 g/mL
- Solubility: Highly soluble in water
Chemical Properties
- Reducing agent: Sodium thiosulphate is a strong reducing agent, which means it can donate electrons to react with oxidizing agents.
- Antioxidant: Sodium thiosulphate has antioxidant properties, which means it can neutralize free radicals and prevent oxidative damage.
Uses of 0.1M Sodium Thiosulphate Solution
0.1M sodium thiosulphate solution has a wide range of applications, including:
Photography
Sodium thiosulphate is used as a photographic fixer to remove unexposed silver halides from photographic film and paper.
Wastewater Treatment
Sodium thiosulphate is used to remove heavy metals and other pollutants from wastewater.
Medicine
Sodium thiosulphate is used as an antidote to treat cyanide poisoning. It is also used to treat skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis.
Laboratory Applications
0.1M sodium thiosulphate solution is used as a reagent in various laboratory applications, including as a reducing agent and antioxidant.
Precautions and Handling
When handling 0.1M sodium thiosulphate solution, precautions should be taken to avoid skin and eye contact, as well as inhalation of the solution. It is recommended to wear protective clothing, including gloves and goggles, and to work in a well-ventilated area.
Conclusion
In conclusion, 0.1M sodium thiosulphate solution is a versatile and widely used solution with a range of applications. Its properties as a reducing agent and antioxidant make it an essential reagent in various industries. However, it is important to handle the solution with care and follow proper safety protocols to avoid any adverse effects.
