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vitriolus

Vitriolus is a historical Latin term related to vitriol, used in medieval and early modern chemistry to refer to sulfuric acid as well as a family of metal sulfates known to alchemists and early chemists. In English texts, the term vitriol became associated with concentrated sulfuric acid, often called oil of vitriol, an important reagent in early chemical practice. The word vitriolus itself is sometimes found as a Latin adjective or noun describing a glassy, crystalline appearance.

Etymology and usage

The word derives from Latin vitriolus, stemming from vitrum or vitrum-like glass, reflecting the vitreous appearance

Historical context

Vitriols comprise crystalline sulfates prepared from various metals. They played a central role in alchemy and

Common varieties

- Blue vitriol: copper(II) sulfate, CuSO4·5H2O, known for its vivid blue crystals.

- Green vitriol: iron(II) sulfate, FeSO4·7H2O, usually pale green.

- White vitriol: zinc sulfate, ZnSO4·7H2O, colorless crystals.

- Purple vitriol: manganese(II) sulfate, MnSO4·H2O, often pale pink to purple.

Modern status

Today the term vitriol is largely historical. The corresponding substances are referred to by their modern

of
crystals
and
the
glassy
texture
of
many
sulfates.
In
historical
writings,
vitriols
were
prized
for
their
crystallization
properties
and
used
in
the
analysis
and
preparation
of
chemical
substances.
early
chemistry
as
reagents
and
sources
of
metal
ions.
Their
distinct
colors
helped
early
chemists
identify
different
metal
sulfates
and
their
properties.
names:
sulfuric
acid
(historically
oil
of
vitriol)
and
specific
metal
sulfates.
The
word
vitriolus
remains
of
interest
mainly
in
historical
or
philological
discussions
of
early
chemistry.