In `CuSO_(4).5H_(2)O` how many molecules of water are indirectly connected to `Cu`

Options

A. 5
B. 4
C. 2
D. 1

Answer

To determine how many molecules of water are indirectly connected to copper in the compound CuSO₄·5H₂O, we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Understand the Compound
The compound CuSO₄·5H₂O consists of copper sulfate (CuSO₄) and five water molecules (H₂O). The notation "·5H₂O" indicates that there are five water molecules associated with the copper sulfate.

**Hint:** Identify the components of the compound and their roles.

### Step 2: Identify Directly Bonded Water Molecules
In CuSO₄·5H₂O, the copper ion (Cu²⁺) coordinates with water molecules. Typically, four of the five water molecules coordinate directly with the Cu²⁺ ion through coordinate covalent bonds.

**Hint:** Remember that coordination involves direct bonding between the metal ion and water molecules.

### Step 3: Identify Indirectly Bonded Water Molecules
The remaining one water molecule does not coordinate directly with the copper ion. Instead, it is associated with the copper sulfate through hydrogen bonding. This means that this water molecule is indirectly connected to the copper ion.

**Hint:** Distinguish between direct coordination and other types of bonding, such as hydrogen bonding.

### Step 4: Conclusion
From the analysis, we find that out of the five water molecules, four are directly bonded to the copper ion, and one is indirectly connected through hydrogen bonding. Therefore, the number of water molecules indirectly connected to copper is **1**.

**Final Answer:** 1 water molecule is indirectly connected to copper in CuSO₄·5H₂O.