SO₃⁻²
Sulfite
The sulfate anion (SO₄²⁻) has a net -2 charge, while SO₃ is an anion known as sulfite, which has a net -2 charge. The formula for sulfite ion is SO₃²⁻. Therefore, SO₃²⁻ is the sulfite anion with an overall charge of -2.
Sulfite anion is formed from sulfur dioxide (SO₂) which is a colorless gas with a pungent odor. It is produced naturally in volcanic gases and always gets produced during the combustion of fossil fuels, causing air pollution. In the food industry, sulfites are used as preservatives and antioxidants in wine, dried fruits and vegetables, and processed meats to extend their shelf life.
In biological systems, sulfite anion is toxic and must be oxidized to sulfate in a two-step process. First, it’s oxidized by sulfite oxidase to form sulfate ion. The enzyme sulfite oxidase is present in the liver, lungs and kidneys. Second, the sulfate ion is excreted from the body in the urine.
In summary, SO₃²⁻ is the sulfite anion with a -2 charge, which is formed from sulfur dioxide and is used as a preservative and antioxidant in the food industry. In biological systems, it is toxic and must be oxidized to sulfate in a two-step process before being excreted from the body.
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