hexathionic

Hexathionic acid is an inorganic acid with the chemical formula H2S6O6. It is a member of the polythionic acid series, which are characterized by chains of sulfur atoms linked by oxygen atoms. Hexathionic acid is a strong acid and is generally unstable, readily decomposing. Its salts are known as hexathionates.

The hexathionate anion, S6O6^2-, consists of a chain of six sulfur atoms, with each sulfur atom bonded to two oxygen atoms. The sulfur atoms in the chain are in various oxidation states. While hexathionic acid itself is not commonly encountered due to its instability, its salts can be synthesized and studied.

Hexathionates are typically formed through the reaction of sulfur dioxide with hydrogen sulfide or other sulfur compounds under specific conditions. For example, the reaction of thiosulfate with sulfite can lead to the formation of hexathionate. These compounds are often found as byproducts in various industrial processes involving sulfur chemistry.

The study of hexathionic acid and its salts is primarily of academic interest, contributing to the understanding of sulfur-oxygen chemistry and the properties of polythionic acids. Their instability limits their practical applications.