Cobalt(II) sulfate
Cobalt(II) sulfate, also known as cobaltous sulfate, is a chemical compound. Its chemical formula is CoSO4. It contains cobalt in its +2 oxidation state. It contains cobalt and sulfate ions.
Properties[change | change source]
It is a reddish crystalline solid. It dissolves easily in water. It is reddish without water (anhydrous) and pink with water (hydrated).
Preparation[change | change source]
It can be made by reacting cobalt, cobalt(II) oxide, or cobalt(II) hydroxide with sulfuric acid. It is very rarely found in the earth.
Uses[change | change source]
It is used as a pigment. It is also used to make other cobalt salts. It can be used in electroplating cobalt. It was added to beer in the past but that poisoned people.
Safety[change | change source]
Cobalt(II) sulfate is slightly carcinogenic. It is poisonous in large quantities.