Sesquicarbonate, pronounced /ˌsɛskwɪˈkɑːrbəneɪt/, is a chemical compound that contains one and a half moles of carbon dioxide per mole of the compound. The spelling of this word is derived from its Latin roots, with "sesqui" meaning "one and a half" and "carbonate" referring to the CO2 group. The phonetic transcription of this word includes the stress on the second syllable and the long "a" sound in the final syllable. Despite its complexity, the spelling of sesquicarbonate adheres to the predictable patterns of Latin-based technical terms in chemistry.
Sesquicarbonate is a chemical compound that serves as an alternative term for the bicarbonate anion, HCO3-. The prefix "sesqui" denotes the presence of one-and-a-half or one and a half times that of a specified element or radical. In the case of sesquicarbonate, it refers to the molecular structure's composition, which consists of one carbonate anion (CO32-) and one bicarbonate anion (HCO3-) linked together. This composition results in a compound with the chemical formula C2H3O5^2-.
Sesquicarbonate can also refer to a salt or an ester derived from sesquicarbonic acid, which is a hypothetical acid comprised of two carbon dioxide molecules and one water molecule. However, practical applications and general usage of the term often relate to the bicarbonate anion.
Sesquicarbonates are commonly used in various industries and applications. For instance, sodium sesquicarbonate (Na2CO3·NaHCO3·2H2O) is an important component of cleaning agents and stain removers due to its ability to effectively remove scales, grime, and stains from various surfaces. Additionally, the compound finds use in swimming pools to increase alkalinity and maintain the pH balance.
In summary, sesquicarbonate is a chemical compound that refers to the bicarbonate anion, as well as salts or esters derived from sesquicarbonic acid. It plays a crucial role in diverse applications such as cleaning agents and pool maintenance.
A salt composed of 1 1/2 equivalents of carbonic acid, and 1 equivalent of any base, or in the proportion of three of the one and two of the other; also similarly of other salts.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "sesquicarbonate" is of Latin origin. It is derived from the Latin words "sesqui" meaning "one and a half" and "carbonate" which refers to a compound containing the carbonate ion (CO₃²⁻). "Sesqui-" is a prefix used to denote one and a half times the stated amount. In the case of "sesquicarbonate", it indicates that the compound contains one and a half times the amount of carbonate.