When Epsom salt crystals MgSO4 are added to water it make water cold(er), Why?
2007-01-17 16:58:10 · 4 answers · asked by Anonymous in Science & Mathematics ➔ Chemistry
Because the energy from the water (in the form of heat energy) is used to ionize (break the bonds of) the magnesium sulfate. The enrgy it takes to do this is then transferred to the magnesium and sulfate ions, so the water feels cooler. This type of reaction is called 'endothermic', ie. energy must be absorbed (or put into) the reaction to make it happen.
2007-01-17 17:03:08 · answer #1 · answered by teachbio 5 · 5⤊ 0⤋
The dissolution of the Epsom salts is an ENDOTHERMIC process. That means energy is needed--which is taken from "outside" -from the solvent's stored energy. Thus the water SOLUTION is cooler than before.
In comparison, an exothermic reaction will liberate or generate energy or heat, which makes the water warmer.
2007-01-17 17:26:18 · answer #2 · answered by Aldo 5 · 1⤊ 1⤋
It doesn't make it cold right away. When I'd get bee stings, I'd soak the area in hot Epsom salt water. I'd sit there with hot water for at least 15 minutes.
2007-01-17 17:04:48 · answer #3 · answered by Fulita 4 · 0⤊ 2⤋
cold drinking water, hot shower water. =)
2016-03-29 02:42:11 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋