What is Alum?

Alum is an inorganic compound that exists as a hydrated form of double salt. Alum is composed of aluminum, water molecules, and sulphates. Alums are normally found in the form of minerals. XAl(SO4)2·12H2O is the general chemical formula of alum. Alum can be found in many forms, such as potash alum, soda alum, ammonium alum, and chrome alum.

Alum Formula

Since, alum represents a class of compounds, its general chemical formula is given as follows:

The chemical Formula of Alum is XAl(SO4)2.12H2O

In the above formula, X can be a metal such as potassium (K), sodium (Na), or any other compound such as ammonia (NH3).

Alum – Formula, Types, Production, Properties, Uses

Alum is an important inorganic compound which are double sulfates of a monovalent metal (such as potassium, sodium, or ammonium) and a trivalent metal (such as aluminum, chromium, or iron). Alum is widely used in industries as well as medical purposes. It has antiseptic property and is used after shave. It is often called “Fitkari.”

In this article, we learn about alum, its properties, different types of alum, its uses, and many more important facts related to it.

Table of Content

  • What is Alum?
  • Production of Alum
  • Properties of Alum
  • Types of Alum
  • Uses of Alum
  • Alum Water Treatment

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What is Alum?

Alum is an inorganic compound that exists as a hydrated form of double salt. Alum is composed of aluminum, water molecules, and sulphates. Alums are normally found in the form of minerals. XAl(SO4)2·12H2O is the general chemical formula of alum. Alum can be found in many forms, such as potash alum, soda alum, ammonium alum, and chrome alum....

Production of Alum

Most alums are found as minerals. Alunite is one of the most common alum which is occurred as minerals. Potassium, sodium, and ammonium are the other important types of alum that are produced in industries....

Properties of Alum

The properties of alum is discussed in the below in a tabular form....

Types of Alum

There are a few types of alum available. These are...

Uses of Alum

The uses of alum are discussed below:...

Alum Water Treatment

Alum water treatment is generally used to treat polluted waters. To treat polluted water, we use coagulation – flocculation process and in this case, alum is used as a coagulant. Alum treatment is done before the sedimentation and filtration process. The main reason for doing this is to increase the ability of a treatment process to remove unwanted particles....

Facts about Alum

Alum molecules surrounding by water molecules . But after hearing on high temperature, the water molecules remove and forms amorphous powder. Chemical composition of alum is potassium, aluminum, hydrogen, sulphur and oxygen. Generally Alums are colourless and odorless. Alums have a good flavour and sweet taste....

Conclusion

Alum is an important inorganic compound. It is found in many forms. This article covered all details related to alum including its types, properties etc. This information about alum is enough for a student....

Frequently Asked Questions on Alum

What is alum?...

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