Tellurite facts for kids
Tellurite is a special kind of chemical particle called an ion. Its chemical formula is TeO32-. Think of it as a tiny building block made of tellurium and oxygen. Tellurite compounds are quite stable, meaning they don't easily break apart.
About Tellurite
Tellurite as a Chemical Compound
Tellurite is a chemical compound. It is known as a weak oxidizing agent. This means it can take electrons from other substances.
When tellurite is in a slightly acidic liquid, it changes. It forms something called hydrogen tellurite. Its formula is HTeO3-. If the liquid becomes very acidic, it then forms tellurous acid.
Scientists usually make tellurite compounds in a lab. They do this by mixing tellurium dioxide with a metal oxide.
Tellurite as a Mineral
Tellurite is also a rare mineral found in nature. This mineral is made up of tellurium dioxide. It can be yellow or white in color.
You can find tellurite minerals in special areas. These are places where other minerals tend to oxidize. This means they react with oxygen. If these conditions were not present, you might find telluride or native tellurium instead.
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