DISODIUM OCTABORATE TETRAHYDRATE Meaning and
Definition
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Disodium octaborate tetrahydrate is a chemical compound that consists of disodium cations (Na2+), octaborate anions ([B8O13]2-), and four water molecules (H2O) attached to each octaborate anion. It is represented by the chemical formula Na2B8O13•4H2O.
The term "disodium" indicates the presence of two sodium ions in the compound. Sodium is an alkali metal that forms cations (positively charged ions) by losing one electron, resulting in a positive charge of +1 for each sodium ion. The "octaborate" part refers to the octahedral borate anion, which is composed of eight boron atoms and thirteen oxygen atoms arranged in a three-dimensional structure.
The "tetrahydrate" component signifies that four water molecules are associated with each octaborate anion in the compound. This water of hydration is incorporated into the crystal lattice structure of disodium octaborate tetrahydrate, resulting in the formation of crystalline white solid particles.
Disodium octaborate tetrahydrate possesses unique properties that make it useful for various applications, including as a flame retardant, wood preservative, and insecticide. It functions by releasing borate ions, which disrupt the normal physiological processes of certain organisms, such as insects and fungi, leading to their inhibition or elimination. Due to its low toxicity to humans, disodium octaborate tetrahydrate is commonly used in environmentally friendly products for pest control and wood preservation.
