Chromium(VI) oxide facts for kids

Chromium(VI) oxide in bowl

Chromium(VI) oxide, also known as chromium trioxide, is a chemical compound. Its chemical formula is CrO₃. It has chromium in its +6 oxidation state. It also has oxide ions. It is a solid used in cleaning glass.

Properties
Preparation
Uses
Safety
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Properties

A concentrated solution of potassium dichromate in water.

It is a dark red crystalline solid. It is a strong oxidizing agent. It can ignite alcohol when it is mixed with it. It is very toxic and irritates skin. It is a stronger oxidizing agent than chromate. It dissolves in water to make chromic acid, which is acidic. It reacts with strong bases to make chromates. It gives off oxygen when heated and turns into chromium(III) oxide.

Preparation

It is normally made by reacting sodium chromate or potassium chromate with sulfuric acid. It can also be made by drying chromic acid.

Uses

It is used to clean glass. It is also used to plate chromate on things. It reacts with metals to make a metal chromate which stops the metal from corroding.

Safety

Chromium(VI) oxide is very toxic and irritating. It is a carcinogen and can cause mutations. It can be destroyed by reacting it with a reducing agent like ferrous sulfate. It is a dangerous hazard to the environment.