Sulfosokselihapon

Sulfosokselihapon, also known as thiosulfate, is an inorganic anion with the chemical formula S2O3^2-. It is a conjugate base of thiosulfuric acid and is commonly found in various chemical and biological contexts. Thiosulfate is notable for its role in the fixation of nitrogen in plants, where it serves as an intermediate in the conversion of atmospheric nitrogen to ammonia. This process is facilitated by the enzyme nitrogenase, which is found in certain bacteria and archaea.

Thiosulfate can also be produced through the oxidation of sulfide (S^2-) or the reduction of sulfate (SO4^2-). It is a strong reducing agent and can react with various oxidizing agents, such as iodine, to form elemental sulfur and other sulfur-containing compounds. Thiosulfate is also used in analytical chemistry as a titrant in the determination of iodine and other oxidizing agents.

In biological systems, thiosulfate is involved in the detoxification of hydrogen sulfide, a toxic byproduct of sulfur metabolism. It can be further metabolized to sulfate, which is then excreted from the body. Thiosulfate is also a component of certain proteins and plays a role in the structure and function of these biomolecules.

Thiosulfate is generally considered non-toxic in low concentrations, but high levels can be harmful. It can cause skin irritation and, in severe cases, respiratory distress. The handling and disposal of thiosulfate-containing materials should be done with care to avoid potential health risks.