Basic Copper Carbonate, often represented by the formula Cu₂(OH)₂CO₃, is an important compound used in agriculture, ceramics, pigments, and chemical synthesis. Its distinctive green hue and mild alkaline properties make it a subject of scientific interest and industrial value. One common question in both academic and industrial settings is: What is the pH of Basic Copper Carbonate?
Chemically speaking, Basic Copper Carbonate is weakly basic. When suspended in water, it only partially dissolves, releasing a small number of hydroxide ions (OH⁻). This limited solubility means that its aqueous solution is not strongly alkaline but has a pH that typically ranges between 7.5 and 9.0. The exact pH can vary slightly depending on concentration, purity, and temperature, but it consistently leans toward the basic side of the pH scale.
The compound’s weak basicity results from its origin — a combination of copper hydroxide and copper carbonate. These components neutralize part of each other’s reactivity, forming a stable compound that neither behaves as a strong base nor as a strong acid. This balance makes Basic Copper Carbonate ideal for applications that require controlled alkalinity.
In practical use, High Purity Basic Copper Carbonate and Copper Carbonate Basic Fine Particles are widely utilized in animal feed, fertilizers, and chemical processing. In agriculture, it provides a steady supply of copper, an essential micronutrient that supports plant enzyme activity and disease resistance. In industrial applications, its mild basic pH makes it suitable for pigments, ceramics, and as a precursor for producing copper oxide and other copper salts.
Environmental and safety advantages also stem from its moderate alkalinity. Because Basic Copper Carbonate is not highly corrosive or reactive, it can be handled safely and used sustainably in formulations requiring stable copper content.
In conclusion, the pH of Basic Copper Carbonate generally falls within the slightly basic range of 7.5–9.0, reflecting its mild alkalinity and chemical stability. This property, combined with its versatility, ensures that it remains a key material in both scientific research and industrial production.
