SO4 is called the sulfate ion.
Understanding SO4: The Sulfate Ion
The molecule SO4, according to the EMBL-EBI database, is known by several names, with the most common being the sulfate ion. Let's break down what makes SO4 significant:
Key Characteristics of SO4
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Molecule Name | Sulfate Ion |
| Systematic Names | Sulfate (using ACDLabs 10.04 and OpenEye OEToolkits 1.5.0 nomenclature) |
| Formula | O4S (one sulfur atom and four oxygen atoms) |
| Formal Charge | -2 (indicates it carries a double negative charge) |
Why is the Sulfate Ion Important?
- Biological Relevance: Sulfate is vital in biological systems, playing roles in various metabolic processes.
- Chemical Applications: It is widely used in industrial processes and chemical synthesis.
- Inorganic Chemistry: It is a common anion that forms many compounds such as salts and minerals.
Examples of Sulfate Use
- Gypsum (CaSO4·2H2O): A common mineral used in construction.
- Epsom Salt (MgSO4·7H2O): Used for bathing and gardening.
- Sulfuric Acid (H2SO4): An important industrial chemical produced from sulfur.
Therefore, when you see SO4, you are generally referring to the sulfate ion which has a negative two charge and is composed of one sulfur atom and four oxygen atoms.
