Water of crystallization is the fixed number of water molecules present in one formula unit of a salt. It affects the physical properties and appearance of salts, such as causing color changes in copper sulfate crystals.
What is water of crystallization, and how does it affect the appearance of salts like copper sulfate and gypsum?
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Water of crystallization refers to water molecules that are incorporated into the crystal structure of a compound. In salts like copper sulfate and gypsum, water of crystallization affects their appearance by giving them a specific crystalline structure and often a characteristic color. Removal of this water can alter their appearance and physical properties.