CUSO

CuSO refers to copper(II) sulfate, an inorganic compound with the chemical formula CuSO4. It is a salt of copper and sulfuric acid. Copper(II) sulfate commonly exists as pentahydrate, CuSO4·5H2O, which is a vibrant blue crystalline solid. This hydrated form is also known as blue vitriol or bluestone.

In its anhydrous form, CuSO4 is a white powder. When heated, copper(II) sulfate pentahydrate loses its water molecules, turning into the white anhydrous compound. This dehydration process is reversible; the anhydrous salt will absorb water from the atmosphere to reform the blue pentahydrate. This property makes anhydrous copper(II) sulfate a useful drying agent.

Copper(II) sulfate has a wide range of applications. It is frequently used in agriculture as a fungicide and algaecide to control diseases in plants and to treat water bodies. In industry, it finds use in electroplating baths, as a mordant in dyeing textiles, and in the production of other copper compounds. In laboratories, it is employed as a reagent and as a source of copper ions.

Copper(II) sulfate is toxic and should be handled with care. Ingestion can cause gastrointestinal distress, and prolonged or repeated skin contact can lead to irritation. Its environmental impact, particularly on aquatic life, is also a consideration in its use.