CeSO42

CeSO4, commonly written as Ce(SO4)2, refers to cerium(IV) sulfate. It is a salt formed from cerium in the +4 oxidation state and sulfate. In solid form it exists mainly as hydrated crystalline forms, and in water it forms acidic solutions containing the Ce4+ ion. Solutions of Ce(SO4)2 are typically yellow to pale orange due to the presence of Ce4+; the Ce3+ form, by contrast, is colorless or pale green.

Preparation and forms: Ce(SO4)2 is usually prepared by dissolving cerium oxide or cerium hydroxide in hot concentrated sulfuric acid, followed by crystallization to give hydrated cerium(IV) sulfate. The compound is highly hygroscopic and tends to form various hydrated solids depending on the preparation and drying conditions. In aqueous solution, the Ce4+ center is a strong one-electron oxidant in strongly acidic medium.

Properties and handling: Ce(SO4)2 is a powerful oxidizing agent in acidic solutions and is typically handled with care to avoid contact with reducing agents, organic materials, or incompatible reagents. It is more stable in concentrated sulfuric acid than in basic or neutral conditions, where Ce4+ can be reduced to Ce3+.

Applications: The compound is widely used in analytical chemistry as a strong oxidant for redox titrations and as an oxidizing component in various analytical procedures and certain organic syntheses. It also appears in formulations and preparations of ceric reagents (for example, ceric sulfate-based solutions) used in laboratory redox work.

Safety notes: As a strong oxidizer, Ce(SO4)2 can react vigorously with reducing agents and organic materials. Use appropriate protective equipment, work in a well-ventilated area, and store away from incompatibles.