7676. Potassium Sulfite

Nomenclature

CAS number: 10117-38-1
K2O3S; mol wt 158.26.
K 49.41%, O 30.33%, S 20.26%.
K2SO3.

Description and references

The sulfite of commerce is 90-95% pure.

Derivative

Dihydrate.

Properties

White crystals or cryst powder; gradually oxidizes in the air to sulfate. Soluble in about 3.5 parts water, slightly in alcohol; dec by dil acids with evolution of sulfur dioxide. pH about 8. Keep well closed in a cool place.

Use

In photographic developers.

Therapeutic Category

Cathartic, diuretic.

Keywords

Laxative/Cathartic