What does 'hydrated' mean concerning a compound?

What does 'hydrated' mean concerning a compound?

• A. A compound that has lost all water during heating
• B. A compound with water in its structure
• C. A compound that cannot dissolve in water
• D. A compound that forms gases upon heating

Answer: (B)

When referring to a compound as 'hydrated,' it indicates that the compound contains water molecules integrated into its structure. This can mean that water molecules are chemically bonded to the compound, often forming hydrates, which are solid compounds consisting of water and the substance in question. For instance, in hydrated copper(II) sulfate (CuSO4·5H2O), the "5H2O" signifies that five water molecules are part of the structure. This definition emphasizes the structural role of water in the compound, which is critical in fields like crystallography and material science. Hydration can significantly influence the physical properties of a compound, including its solubility, stability, and color. Understanding hydration is crucial, especially in chemistry where reactions are typically carried out in aqueous solutions, and where compounds' states can change with the loss or gain of water.

When referring to a compound as 'hydrated,' it indicates that the compound contains water molecules integrated into its structure. This can mean that water molecules are chemically bonded to the compound, often forming hydrates, which are solid compounds consisting of water and the substance in question. For instance, in hydrated copper(II) sulfate (CuSO4·5H2O), the "5H2O" signifies that five water molecules are part of the structure.

This definition emphasizes the structural role of water in the compound, which is critical in fields like crystallography and material science. Hydration can significantly influence the physical properties of a compound, including its solubility, stability, and color. Understanding hydration is crucial, especially in chemistry where reactions are typically carried out in aqueous solutions, and where compounds' states can change with the loss or gain of water.