Bisulphite meaning

The meaning of bisulphite is a chemical compound that contains a sulfur atom bonded to two oxygen atoms, typically used as a reducing agent in chemical reactions.


Bisulphite definitions

Word backwards etihplusib
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division Bi-sul-phite
Plural The plural form of bisulphite is bisulphites.
Total letters 10
Vogais (3) i,u,e
Consonants (6) b,s,l,p,h,t

Bisulphite, often written as bisulfite in American English, is a chemical compound that is commonly used in various industries for different purposes. It is a salt of sulphurous acid, consisting of a hydrogen sulphite anion. This versatile compound has a wide range of applications, from food preservation to environmental protection.

Uses of Bisulphite

Bisulphite is commonly used in the food industry as a preservative to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi. It is added to foods such as dried fruits, fruit juices, and canned goods to extend their shelf life. In the wastewater treatment industry, bisulphite is used to remove excess chlorine in water treatment plants. Additionally, it is used in the pharmaceutical industry as a reducing agent in the production of certain drugs.

Chemical Properties

One of the key properties of bisulphite is its ability to react with aldehydes and ketones, forming addition products known as bisulfite adducts. This reaction is commonly used in chemical analysis to detect the presence of carbonyl compounds. Bisulphite also acts as a reducing agent due to the presence of the sulphur atom in its structure, which can undergo oxidation-reduction reactions.

Environmental Impact

Although bisulphite has many useful applications, it is important to consider its environmental impact. When bisulphite reacts with oxygen, it forms sulphate, which can contribute to acid rain when released into the atmosphere. Proper handling and disposal of bisulphite are essential to prevent environmental contamination.

Bisulphite plays a crucial role in various industries, from food preservation to wastewater treatment. Its unique chemical properties make it a valuable compound for a wide range of applications. By understanding the uses and environmental impact of bisulphite, we can ensure responsible usage and disposal of this versatile compound.


Bisulphite Examples

  1. The scientist used bisulphite to preserve the DNA samples.
  2. Adding bisulphite to the solution helped in reducing the oxidation process.
  3. The chemical reaction required the use of bisulphite as a reducing agent.
  4. The wastewater treatment plant used bisulphite to remove toxins from the water.
  5. Bisulphite was added to the food packaging to extend its shelf life.
  6. The photographer used bisulphite to fix the image on the film.
  7. The winemaker used bisulphite to prevent spoilage during the fermentation process.
  8. Adding bisulphite to the textile dye helped in achieving the desired color fastness.
  9. The chemical cleaner contained bisulphite to disinfect the surfaces.
  10. Bisulphite was used in the preservation of historic documents to prevent deterioration.


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  • Updated 05/05/2024 - 15:10:35