Sulfonate

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Sulfonate is a salt or ester of a sulfonic acid. It contains the functional group R-SO3−, where R is an organic group. Sulfonates are the conjugate base of sulfonic acids and are highly soluble in water. They are commonly used in detergents and surfactants due to their ability to form foams.

Structure and bonding[edit | edit source]

Sulfonates are typically organosulfur compounds. They are the conjugate bases of sulfonic acids, which possess the functional group R-SO2OH. The central sulfur atom is typically in its highest oxidation state of +6, and is double bonded to two oxygen atoms and single bonded to one oxygen and one carbon atom. The charge of the sulfonate ion is delocalized over the three oxygen atoms, contributing to the ion's stability.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Sulfonates are used in a variety of applications. They are a major component of detergents and surfactants due to their ability to form foams and emulsify greasy substances. They are also used in the production of dyes and colorants, as well as in the pharmaceutical industry for the production of certain types of drugs.

Health and environmental concerns[edit | edit source]

While sulfonates are generally considered safe for use, some types of sulfonates, such as perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorobutanesulfonate (PFBS), have been linked to health and environmental concerns. These substances are persistent in the environment and can accumulate in the human body, leading to potential health risks.

See also[edit | edit source]

Sulfonate Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD