On earth, Zinc Hydroxide exists as a rare natural mineral. It is also an amphoteric white solid compound, which has the ability to dissolve in a solution of strong acid or strong base. It takes place as three rare earth minerals Ashoverite, Wulfingite, and Sweetite. The formula for zinc hydroxide is Zn(OH)[_{2}].
Properties of Zinc Hydroxide
Physical Properties
Chemical formula of zinc hydroxide |
Zn(OH)[_{2}] |
Molecular weight |
99.394 g/mol |
Melting point |
125 degree Celsius |
Density |
3.053 g/cm[^{3}] |
Odour |
Odourless |
Appearance |
Dull white flocculent precipitate |
Valency of Zn |
2 |
Oxidation State |
+2 |
Solubility |
Slightly soluble in water, insoluble in alcohol |
Chemical Properties
Aluminium reacting with the zinc hydroxide solution gives a white precipitate that is soluble in excess of the reagent to produce complex Al(OH)[_{4}] indicates the aluminium presence. The respective zinc hydroxide to zinc oxide equation is given below:
2Al[_{3}]+(aq) + 3Zn(OH)[_{2}](aq) → 2Al(OH)[_{3}](s) + 3Zn
Zinc cations react with the hydrogen sulphide in the presence of ammonium chloride and ammonia produces a white precipitate of zinc sulphide, which is soluble in acids.
Zn[^{2+}](aq) + S[^{2-}] → ZnS(s)
Zinc Hydroxide Structural Formula
The zinc hydroxide chemical formula or chemical formula for zinc hydroxide is Zn(OH)[_{2}]. Let us look at the typical structural representation of Zinc Hydroxide is given below:
It exists in the tetragonal or orthorhombic forms.
In regular conditions, zinc dissociates to produce zinc ions along with the 2 hydroxide ions from the sodium hydroxide solution to produce zinc hydroxide.
Zn[^{2+}] + 2OH[^{-}] → Zn(OH)[_{2}]
When Zinc hydroxide reacts with an excess amount of sodium hydroxide, it precipitates to produce Zn (OH)[_{2}] and later dissolves into zincate ion.
Zn (OH)[_{2}] + 2OH[^{-}] → Zn(OH)[_{4}^{2-}]
Uses of Zinc Hydroxide – Zn(OH)[_{2}]
The primary uses of Zinc Hydroxide are listed below:
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It can be used as an adsorbing agent in medicine.
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They are utilized for the careful dressings where it works as a retentive. Huge bandages, which are utilized post-medical procedure, can be covered with the zinc compound for engrossing the blood from any injuries.
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It is also used as an intermediate for the commercial production of pigments and pesticides.