How Do You Spell SUBSULPHATE?

1. Subsulphate, also known as subsulfate, is a term mainly used in chemistry to refer to a compound formed by the partial oxidation of a sulphide or a compound containing sulphur. A subsulphate typically consists of a metal cation combined with a negatively charged sulphate complex. The name "subsulphate" suggests that the compound is a derivative of sulphate, but with a lower degree of oxidation.

   In aqueous solutions, subsulphates are known to have an acidic nature due to their ability to release hydrogen ions. They can react with alkalis to form hydroxides and with acids to form salts, indicating their amphoteric behavior. Subsulphates often exhibit a wide range of colors, usually due to the presence of transition metals.

   Examples of subsulphates include ferrous subsulphate, also known as iron(II) subsulphate or iron(II) sulfate, which is commonly used in medicine as a haemostatic agent and in water treatment for its ability to remove phosphates. Another notable example is mercuric subsulphate, a compound of mercury and sulphate ions, known for its use as a laboratory reagent and in the production of wood preservatives.

   Overall, subsulphate refers to a class of compounds resulting from the partial oxidation of a sulphide or a sulphur-containing compound, characterized by their acidic nature, ability to form salts, and often vibrant colors.

2. A basic sulphate, one which contains one or more atoms of the base unsatisfied and still capable of combining with the acid.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

3. A sulphate with an excess of the base.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for SUBSULPHATE

The word "Subsulphate" does not have a well-defined etymology as it is not a recognized word in English. However, by analyzing its components, we can infer potential origins.

The prefix "sub-" comes from Latin and means "under" or "below", indicating that something is less than or in a lower state or position.

The term "sulphate" is derived from the Latin word "sulphur", which means "sulfur". In chemistry, a sulfate is a compound that contains the sulfate ion (SO4^2-).

By combining the prefix "sub-" with "sulphate", it could be surmised that "Subsulphate" refers to a compound or substance that is in a lower or reduced sulfur state or has a lesser proportion of sulfate ions.