How is copper sulphate solution made?

Copper sulphate solution is made by dissolving copper sulphate crystals (CuSO4) in water. The concentration of the solution can vary depending on the intended use.

Here's a general method for preparing a 1% copper sulphate solution, as per the provided reference:

1. Weigh the Copper Sulphate: Accurately weigh 1 gram of copper sulphate crystals (CuSO4 · 5H2O). Note the '· 5H2O' indicates that the copper sulphate is a pentahydrate, meaning each molecule has five water molecules associated with it.
2. Dissolve in a Small Amount of Water: Place the weighed copper sulphate in a 100 ml volumetric flask. Add a small amount of distilled water to the flask. The amount should be enough to dissolve the crystals but still leave room to reach the 100 ml mark.
3. Mix Thoroughly: Gently swirl the flask to dissolve the copper sulphate completely. You might need to use a stirring rod to help the process. Ensure all crystals are dissolved.
4. Bring to Volume: Once the copper sulphate is completely dissolved, carefully add distilled water to the flask until the solution reaches the 100 ml mark on the volumetric flask. Make sure the bottom of the meniscus (the curve of the liquid surface) aligns with the 100 ml mark when viewed at eye level.
5. Mix Again: After adding the water to the final volume, invert the flask several times to ensure the solution is completely mixed and homogeneous.
6. Label the Solution: Clearly label the flask with the contents (1% copper sulphate solution) and the date of preparation.

Important Considerations:

• Type of Water: Using distilled water is crucial to avoid introducing impurities that could affect the solution's properties.
• Concentration: The above instructions create a 1% solution. To make solutions with different concentrations, adjust the amount of copper sulphate accordingly. For example, to create a 5% solution, use 5 grams of copper sulphate in 100 ml of water.
• Safety: Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and eye protection when handling copper sulphate, as it can be an irritant.