Potassium Dichromate (VI)
Potassium Dichromate (VI)
Physical and Chemical Properties
- Potassium dichromate (VI), chemical formula K2Cr2O7, is an inorganic compound and a strong oxidizing agent.
- It exists as a crystalline ionic solid with a bright orange color.
- In acid solution, it can oxidize a wide range of substances, this makes it very useful in laboratory setting.
- Despite its vibrant color and usefulness in the lab, it is highly toxic and carcinogenic, which means that it has been linked to causing cancer.
Use in Oxidation Reaction
- Often used as an oxidizing agent in various industries and laboratory chemical reactions.
- In acidic solution, it’s used to oxidize alcohols to aldehydes, ketones and carboxylic acids.
- The color change (orange to green) accompanying the reduction of dichromate (VI) ions to chromium (III) ions can be used as an indicator of the endpoint in a redox titration.
Use as a Cleaning Agent
- Employed in laboratories as a cleaning agent for glassware because it can effectively oxidize any organic material residues.
Impact on Environment
- Despite its usefulness, potassium dichromate (VI) is a serious environmental hazard. The chromium in the compound can seep into the water and soil, potentially causing harm to wildlife.
Safety Measures
- Due to its toxic and potentially carcinogenic nature, should be handled with utmost care, using personal protective equipment such as gloves and goggles.