MnSO4

MnSO4, or manganese(II) sulfate, is an inorganic salt composed of Mn2+ cations and sulfate anions. The solid commonly occurs as the monohydrate MnSO4·H2O, which forms pale pink crystals that are soluble in water. In aqueous solution, Mn2+ typically exists as the hexaaquairon complex [Mn(H2O)6]2+, giving a light pink color.

Preparation and forms: Industrial production of manganese sulfate typically involves treating manganese carbonates or oxides with sulfuric acid to give MnSO4, with carbon dioxide and water as byproducts. The compound can be isolated as the hydrated form from solutions, and drying yields the anhydrous MnSO4.

Properties: MnSO4 is soluble in water. The monohydrate forms readily from aqueous solutions, while heating removes water to give anhydrous MnSO4. In its solutions, Mn2+ remains the dominant species under mildly acidic to neutral conditions. The salt is generally stable under ordinary laboratory and storage conditions but can release sulfur oxides or degrade at high temperatures.

Uses: The primary use of MnSO4 is as a source of manganese for agricultural fertilizers and animal feeds, helping to correct manganese deficiencies in soils and crops. It is also employed as a chemical precursor for the preparation of other manganese compounds and as a reagent in various synthesis processes.

Safety: MnSO4 should be handled with standard laboratory precautions. It can be irritating to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract in dust form. Prolonged or high-level exposure to manganese compounds can be harmful; appropriate controls, including proper ventilation and personal protective equipment, should be used. It should be kept away from incompatible materials and stored in a cool, dry place.

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