What are the properties of sodium fluoride?


Quick Answer

Some properties of sodium fluoride include its molar mass of 41.98 grams per mole, density of 2.55 grams per cubic centimeter, melting point of 1,819 degrees Fahrenheit and boiling point of 3,099 degrees Fahrenheit. Physical properties of sodium fluoride include its appearance as a green or white solid.

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Full Answer

Sodium fluoride is a compound containing one atom of sodium, which is positively charged, and one atom of fluorine, which is negatively charged. It is represented by the chemical formula of NaF. It is an inorganic compound and is soluble in water. It is considered a salt. Structurally, a molecule of sodium fluoride is octahedral in shape, while its crystal structure is cubic. Sodium fluoride is not flammable. It can be created through a reaction of hydrofluoric acid and sodium hydroxide. Medical properties of sodium fluoride include its ability to strengthen teeth by increasing resistance to bacteria and acids that can cause tooth decay. Due to these properties, sodium fluoride may be used to fluoridate drinking water. Sodium fluoride is lethal to humans in high doses, and is classified by the Dangerous Substances Directive as both toxic and an irritant. Other applications for the compound include use as a cleaning agent, an insecticide and an enzyme inhibitor. It is also used to treat osteoporosis.

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