Chapter 18, Problem 16STP

To determine

To identify: type of compound ${\text{MgSO}}_{\text{4}}{\text{.7H}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}$.

To define: this type of compound ( ${\text{MgSO}}_{\text{4}}{\text{.7H}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}$).

To write: the name of the compound ${\text{MgSO}}_{\text{4}}{\text{.7H}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}$.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

The compound which contains the molecules of water along the chemical formula is called a hydrated compound. It contains the water molecule chemically attached to the other atom.

The water molecules are written by putting dot after the chemical formula. Therefore, ${\text{MgSO}}_{\text{4}}{\text{.7H}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}$ is a hydrated compound. It contains 7 molecules of water. The name of the compound is magnesium sulfate heptahydrate. Thus, a hydrated compound is one that has water chemically attached to the atoms written in its chemical formula.

Conclusion:

Hence, ${\text{MgSO}}_{\text{4}}{\text{.7H}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}$ is a hydrated compound. The name of the compound is magnesium sulfate heptahydrate.