What is Sodium Chromate?

Sodium Chlorate is a bright colored inorganic salt that is frequently used for various applications. The chemical formula for compound is Na2CrO4 with a molecular weight of 161.97 g/mol approx. If you would look at the chemical structure of compound carefully then two sodium cations are connected with the chromate anion where chromium is central atom and it is bonded four oxygen atoms ahead.

Sodium Chromate Formula

For industrial uses, the product is prepared by mixing chromite and sodium carbonate together along with the air. Itis highly soluble in water and can be quickly separated from the iron oxide.

4 Fe(CrO2)2 + 8 Na2CO3 + 7 O2 → 8 Na2CrO4 + 2 Fe2O3 + 8 CO2

Sodium Chromate Chemical Formula

If you would look at the physical properties of the compound then this is a white crystalline solid absorbing water from the air. This is generally odorless and it could exist in various forms based on the concentration. Further, this is a moderate oxidizing agent that quickly reacts with acids to give important industrial chemical i.e. sodium dichromate.

2 Na2CrO4 + H2SO4 → Na2SO4 + Na2Cr2O7 + H2O

About Sodium Chromate

The major uses of the products can be seen in corrosion control, pigment formulation, wood preservation, drilling fluids, the catalyst in organic synthesis and more. This is highly toxic and causes a burning sensation to eyes or skin. It should be swallowed otherwise it may result in liver damage or causes death as well in extreme conditions. When heated, it decomposes to give toxic chromium oxide fumes, which are also very irritating to eyes, skin and mucous membranes.