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Chemical Composition
Rhodium sulfate exists as a whitish-red or translucent liquid. Its molecular weight is 566.05. At the molecular level, it's composed of two rhodium atoms bonded to three sulfate molecules, which themselves are composed of a sulfate atom bonded to four oxygen atoms.
Extraction Method
Rhodium is relatively rare and is mined from few places in the world. Most rhodium is extracted in South America and Russia. Metallic impurities are removed and the leftover rhodium is melted with sodium bisulphate. The reaction produces rhodium sulfate. It can be reacted with hydrochloric acid to produce other industrially useful compounds.
Uses of Rhodium Sulfate
Rhodium sulfate is valued for its rarity and utility. It's used in the catalytic converters of automobiles and aircraft, and is durable against erosion. In vehicles, it helps reduce harmful emissions. It's also used for things as disparate as nuclear reactors and high-tech dental equipment.
Other Facts
The atom of rhodium has a radius of 134.5 picometers and a Van der Waals radius of 200 picometers. It's classified as a platinum metal. Rhodium sulfate is also sometimes produced as a water-soluble powder.