Sulfatet

Sulfatet is the definite form of the word "sulfate" in several Scandinavian languages; in English contexts it usually refers to the sulfate ion (SO4^2-) or its salts and esters. Sulfate is a tetrahedral oxyanion of sulfur in oxidation state +6 and forms salts with many cations (for example gypsum, CaSO4·2H2O; sodium sulfate, Na2SO4; and copper sulfate, CuSO4). Organic sulfates are esters in which the sulfate group is covalently bound, commonly found in detergents and biological molecules.

Sulfates occur widely in nature: dissolved in seawater, bound in minerals, released by volcanic gases, and produced by the oxidation of sulfide minerals. Microbial sulfate reduction is an important anaerobic process in sediments and soils, linking the sulfur and carbon cycles. In the atmosphere, oxidation of sulfur dioxide forms sulfate aerosols that influence climate and air quality and contribute to acid deposition.

Industrial uses of sulfates include manufacture of detergents, paper, glass, textiles, and fertilizers, as well as medical and laboratory applications. Environmental and health considerations include the role of sulfate aerosols in respiratory irritation and climate forcing, and high concentrations of sulfate in drinking water can have laxative effects in sensitive individuals. Monitoring and regulatory limits for sulfate vary by jurisdiction and application.