Caesium selanate is an inorganic compound, with the chemical formula of Cs2SeO4. It can form colourless crystals of the orthorhombic crystal system. It is usually found as a white or colorless crystalline solid. It is soluble in water, as is typical for most alkali metal selenates. It behaves similarly to other selenates, being an oxidizing agent due to the presence of the SeO₄²⁻ anion. The selenium in the compound is in the +6 oxidation state.
Preparation
caesium selenate can be obtained from the reaction of caesium carbonate and selenic acid solution:
Cs2CO3+H2SeO4⟶Cs2SeO4+H2O+CO2↑
caesium selenate can also be prepared by the neutralization reaction of selenic acid and caesium hydroxide:
2CsOH+H2SeO4⟶Cs2SeO4+2H2O
It can be synthesized by reacting cesium hydroxide (CsOH) with selenic acid (H₂SeO₄).
Properties
caesium selenate can precipitate compounds such as CsLiSeO4·1⁄2H2O and Cs4LiH3(SeO4)4 in Cs2SeO4-Li2SeO4-H2O and its acidification system. It can also form double salts with other metals, such as Cs2Mg(SeO4)2·6H2O, Cs2Co(SeO4)2·6H2O, etc.
- Chemical formula: Cs2SeO4
- Molar mass: 408.77
- Appearance: colourless crystals
- Solubility in water: insoluble
Applications
- Nuclear and Radiation Fields: Due to its high density and certain physical properties, cesium selenate may be used in research related to radiation detection and shielding.
- Chemistry and Industry: It is sometimes involved in chemical research, especially in studies related to selenium chemistry and its compounds.
Safety Considerations
- Toxicity: Like many selenate compounds, caesium selenate can be toxic. Selenium compounds can be harmful if ingested or inhaled, and proper handling procedures must be followed.
- Environmental Impact: Because selenium compounds can be toxic to aquatic life, caesium selenate should be handled carefully to avoid environmental contamination.
