ésides

ésides is a term used to describe compounds derived from sulfuric acid. These compounds contain the sulfate functional group, which has the chemical formula SO4. The sulfate ion carries a charge of -2. Sulfates can be found in a wide variety of inorganic and organic compounds. Inorganic sulfates are common salts formed by the reaction of sulfuric acid with bases, metals, or metal oxides. Examples include sodium sulfate (Na2SO4), commonly known as Glauber's salt, and calcium sulfate (CaSO4), which is the main component of gypsum. Many minerals are sulfates, such as barite (BaSO4) and anhydrite (CaSO4). Organic sulfates are esters of sulfuric acid where one or both hydroxyl groups are replaced by organic groups. These are also known as alkyl sulfates or aryl sulfates. Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is a well-known example of an organic sulfate used extensively in detergents and personal care products. Sulfates play significant roles in various biological processes and industrial applications, including in fertilizers, pigments, and as drying agents. The presence of sulfates in water can affect its taste and hardness.