Potash alum is a double salt. Explain this statement using the chemical formula of the alum.
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To explain why potash alum is considered a double salt, let's break down its chemical formula: KAl(SO4)2 · 12H2O.
Potash alum, also known as potassium aluminum sulfate, is a compound made up of potassium (K), aluminum (Al), sulfur (S), and oxygen (O). The chemical formula tells us the elements present in the compound and the ratio in which they combine.
If we analyze the formula, we can identify two key components: potassium sulfate (K2SO4) and aluminum sulfate (Al2(SO4)3). These two sulfates are combined in the ratio of 2:1 in potash alum.
The presence of both these sulfate compounds in the formula is why potash alum is considered a double salt. A double salt is a combination of two different salt compounds that retain their individual identities within the crystal lattice structure, even though they are present within the same compound.
In the case of potash alum, the double salt consists of potassium sulfate and aluminum sulfate, occurring together in a specific stoichiometric ratio. Each salt retains its chemical properties and can be separated from the compound through various physical or chemical methods.
In summary, potash alum is considered a double salt because it contains two distinct salt compounds, potassium sulfate and aluminum sulfate, combined in a specific ratio within its chemical formula.