Bisulphite is a salt or ester of sulphurous acid. According to the provided reference, it contains the monovalent group -HSO3 or the ion HSO3-.
Understanding Bisulphite
Bisulphite compounds are derived from sulphurous acid (H2SO3) by replacing one of the hydrogen atoms with a metal or organic group. The resulting compound contains the bisulphite ion (HSO3-).
Key Characteristics:
- Ionic Composition: Contains the bisulphite ion (HSO3-).
- Chemical Nature: Salt or ester of sulphurous acid.
- Functional Group: Characterized by the presence of the -HSO3 group.
Examples of Bisulphites:
- Sodium bisulphite (NaHSO3)
- Potassium bisulphite (KHSO3)
Applications of Bisulphites:
Bisulphites have various applications across different fields. Here are a few examples:
- Food Industry: As a preservative and antioxidant to prevent browning and spoilage.
- Winemaking: To inhibit the growth of undesirable microorganisms and to remove unwanted color.
- Textile Industry: As a bleaching agent.
- Chemical Industry: As a reducing agent and in various chemical reactions.
- DNA Sequencing: Used in bisulphite sequencing to determine DNA methylation patterns.
Bisulphite Ion
The bisulphite ion (HSO3-) plays a crucial role in the properties and reactions of bisulphites.
Summary Table
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Nature | Salt or ester of sulphurous acid |
| Key Component | Bisulphite ion (HSO3-) |
| Functional Group | -HSO3 |
| Common Examples | Sodium bisulphite, Potassium bisulphite |
