PbSO4

PbSO4, or lead(II) sulfate, is an inorganic compound with the formula PbSO4. It is a white, crystalline solid that is highly insoluble in water. The solubility of PbSO4 is very low, commonly characterized by a solubility-product constant on the order of 10^-8 at room temperature, reflecting its tendency to remain largely undissolved in aqueous solutions.

Natural occurrence: PbSO4 occurs in nature as the mineral anglesite, a secondary lead mineral formed during the oxidation of galena in ore deposits. Anglesite is typically white or colorless and occurs associated with other lead minerals such as cerussite and galena.

Chemical properties and preparation: PbSO4 is sparingly soluble and does not form strong complexes in aqueous solution. It can be prepared in the laboratory by precipitation from solutions containing Pb2+ and SO4^2−, for example by mixing a lead(II) salt with a source of sulfate. In industry and applications, PbSO4 is encountered as a product of lead-related processes and as the principal insoluble form that develops on lead-containing electrodes in lead-acid batteries during discharge. Over time, crystallization of PbSO4 can contribute to sulfation, which may hinder battery performance; proper charging can reverse this process in many cases.

Applications and safety: PbSO4 is primarily significant as a mineral commodity and as a chemical form encountered in lead processing and energy storage technologies. Lead compounds pose health and environmental risks if inhaled or ingested, so handling and disposal follow appropriate safety regulations.