Verified Solution Science Acids, Bases and Salts

Define water of crystallisation. Give the chemical formula for two compounds as examples. How can it be proved that the water of crystallisation makes a difference in the state and colour of the compounds?

540 views 58 helpful Updated May 31, 2025
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Answer

Water of crystallisation is the fixed number of water molecules that are present in the crystal structure of a salt. These water molecules are a part of the salt and give it its shape and colour.

Examples:

  • Copper(II) sulphate – CuSO₄5H₂O
  • Gypsum – CaSO₄2H₂O

Proof:

  1. When blue copper sulphate crystals (CuSO₄·5H₂O) are heated, they lose water of crystallisation and become white anhydrous copper sulphate (CuSO₄).
  2. When water is added back to the white powder, it turns blue again, showing that water of crystallisation affects the colour and state of the compound.
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