CuSO4aq

CuSO4aq is a common abbreviation used in chemistry to represent an aqueous solution of copper(II) sulfate. Copper(II) sulfate is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula CuSO4. When dissolved in water, it forms a blue solution due to the presence of the hydrated copper(II) ion, [Cu(H2O)6]2+. The sulfate ion (SO4)2- also dissociates in water.

This aqueous solution is widely used in various applications. In laboratories, it serves as a reagent for qualitative and quantitative analysis, often used to test for the presence of reducing agents or in electroplating experiments. Its distinctive blue color makes it useful as a visual indicator in many chemical reactions.

Industrially, CuSO4aq finds application in agriculture as a fungicide and algaecide, helping to control plant diseases and prevent algal growth in water bodies. It is also employed in the mining industry for froth flotation and in the textile industry as a mordant to help fix dyes to fabrics. The concentration of CuSO4 in aqueous solutions can vary widely depending on the intended use, with higher concentrations typically used for industrial applications and lower concentrations for laboratory demonstrations or specific treatments. It is important to handle CuSO4aq with care, as it can be irritating to skin and eyes.