Sodium periodate facts for kids
Sodium periodate is a special kind of chemical compound. Think of it like a building block made of different atoms. Its chemical formula can be NaIO4 (which is called sodium metaperiodate) or Na5IO6 (which is called sodium orthoiodate). These formulas tell us it contains sodium and periodate ions. Ions are tiny charged particles.
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What is Sodium Periodate Like?
Sodium periodate is a solid that has no color. It looks like a white powder. When it mixes with acids, it creates another chemical called periodic acid.
If you heat sodium periodate, it breaks down into simpler substances. It turns into sodium iodate and releases oxygen gas.
Sodium periodate is also known as a strong oxidizing agent. This means it can take electrons from other chemicals, causing them to change. It's a bit like a chemical "cleanup crew" that helps other chemicals react.
How is Sodium Periodate Made?
Scientists can make sodium periodate in a lab. One way to make it is by starting with sodium iodide. They then add sodium hypochlorite in a special liquid called nitric acid solution. This process causes a chemical reaction that changes sodium iodide into sodium periodate.
What is Sodium Periodate Used For?
Sodium periodate has a few interesting uses:
- It can oxidize cellulose. Cellulose is a main part of plant cell walls, like in wood or cotton. When sodium periodate oxidizes cellulose, it changes its chemical structure.
- It is also used as a biodegradable chemical. This means it can break down naturally and safely, even inside the human body.
- It is used in many reactions in organic chemistry. Organic chemistry is the study of chemicals that contain carbon, which are the building blocks of living things.
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