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Why is copper sulphate called?

GeneralClass 8CBSEAnswered 1 Apr 2026
Answer

Copper sulphate is named after its constituent elements: copper (Cu) and the sulfate ion (SO4²⁻).

Chemical nomenclature follows systematic rules. The name breaks down as:

  • Copper: The metal cation (Cu²⁺) present in the compound
  • Sulfate: The polyatomic anion (SO₄²⁻) consisting of sulfur and oxygen

The "(II)" notation specifies copper's +2 oxidation state, distinguishing it from copper(I) compounds. Historical names like "blue vitriol" come from its blue crystalline appearance, where "vitriol" was an old term for sulfate salts.

General · Class 8