Szulfurózus

Szulfurózus refers to a chemical compound containing sulfur in a +4 oxidation state. This term is commonly encountered in the context of sulfurous acid, H₂SO₃, and its salts, sulfites. Sulfurous acid is a weak acid formed when sulfur dioxide gas dissolves in water. Sulfites are the conjugate bases of sulfurous acid and can exist as neutral salts or acid salts.

In organic chemistry, the term can also describe a sulfinic acid derivative, where the sulfur atom is bonded to a carbon atom and has a +4 oxidation state. These compounds are generally less stable than their sulfonic acid counterparts, where sulfur is in the +6 oxidation state.

Sulfites have various applications, including their use as reducing agents, preservatives in food (often denoted by E numbers), and in the paper industry for pulping wood. However, sulfites can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, leading to regulations regarding their labeling on food products.

Sulfur dioxide, the parent compound of sulfurous acid and sulfites, is a pungent gas produced by the combustion of sulfur-containing fuels and volcanic activity. It is a significant air pollutant contributing to acid rain.