Ferrous sulfate monohydrate (FeSO₄·H₂O) is a chemical compound consisting of iron, sulfur, and water molecules. It is a blue-green crystalline solid that is commonly used for its iron content in various industrial, agricultural, and medicinal applications. As a source of iron, it plays a crucial role in both plant and animal health.

IUPAC Name:

Iron(II) sulfate monohydrate

Common Names:

• Ferrous sulfate
• Iron(II) sulfate
• Copperas (historical name)

Chemical Properties:

• Molecular Formula: FeSO₄·H₂O
• Molar Mass: 169.92 g/mol
• Appearance: Blue-green crystalline solid
• Density: 2.97 g/cm³
• Melting Point: Decomposes before melting
• Solubility in Water: Highly soluble

Applications:

1. Agriculture:

• Soil Amendment: Used to correct iron chlorosis (iron deficiency) in plants, promoting healthy growth and green foliage.
• Fertilizer Additive: Added to fertilizers to provide essential iron for plant nutrition.

2. Water Treatment:

• Coagulation and Flocculation: Employed in water and wastewater treatment to remove impurities by promoting the aggregation of particles.
• pH Adjustment: Used to adjust the pH of water, particularly in processes that require specific pH conditions.

3. Animal Feed:

• Nutritional Supplement: Added to animal feed to prevent and treat iron deficiency in livestock and poultry, ensuring proper growth and development.

4. Industrial Applications:

• Pigment Production: Used in the manufacture of iron-based pigments, such as iron oxide pigments, for paints, coatings, and inks.
• Cement and Concrete: Acts as a reducing agent in the cement industry to improve the quality and durability of concrete.

5. Medical Use:

• Iron Supplement: Used in the treatment of iron-deficiency anemia in humans, often in tablet or liquid form.
• Topical Applications: Occasionally used in dermatology for its astringent properties.

6. Gardening and Lawn Care:

• Moss Control: Applied to lawns to control moss growth and improve the green color of the grass.
• Soil pH Correction: Used to lower soil pH in alkaline soils, making nutrients more available to plants.