Calcium sulfite is insoluble in water.
Understanding Calcium Sulfite and its Solubility
Based on available information, calcium sulfite (CaSO3) is known for its very low solubility in water. This characteristic is important in various applications where it is used.
According to the provided reference:
Calcium Sulfite is a white powder that is insoluble in water but soluble in alcohol or acids. The Calcium Sulfite chemical formula is CaSO3.
This confirms that when calcium sulfite is mixed with water, it does not dissolve to a significant extent, typically forming a suspension rather than a true solution.
Key Properties of Calcium Sulfite
Here's a quick look at some key properties based on the reference:
- Chemical Formula: CaSO3
- Appearance: White powder
- Solubility in Water: Insoluble
- Solubility in Other Solvents: Soluble in alcohol and acids
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | CaSO3 |
| Physical State | Solid (White Powder) |
| Solubility in Water | Insoluble |
| Solubility in Alcohol | Soluble |
| Solubility in Acids | Soluble |
Practical Implications of Water Insolubility
The insolubility of calcium sulfite in water is utilized in various industrial processes. For instance:
- Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD): Calcium sulfite is a common byproduct in wet scrubbing systems used to remove sulfur dioxide (SO2) from the exhaust flue gases of fossil-fuel power plants. The SO2 reacts with a calcium-based sorbent (like limestone or lime) in water, forming calcium sulfite, which precipitates out of the solution due to its low solubility and is then typically oxidized to calcium sulfate (gypsum).
- Food Additive: While used as a preservative (E226), its insolubility in water impacts how it might be dispersed or react in food systems compared to soluble additives.
In summary, if you mix calcium sulfite powder with water, the solid will mostly remain as a solid, forming a suspension rather than dissolving completely.
