Borax

Borax, also known as sodium borate, sodium tetraborate, or disodium tetraborate, is a naturally occurring mineral and a common household chemical. Its chemical formula is Na2B4O7·10H2O. Borax is widely used for various purposes due to its cleaning, disinfecting, and antifungal properties. Here are some common uses of borax:

• Cleaning Agent: Borax is a popular ingredient in many cleaning products, including laundry detergents, multipurpose cleaners, and dishwashing detergents. It helps remove stains, deodorize, and disinfect surfaces.
• Insecticide: Borax can be used as an insecticide to control cockroaches, ants, fleas, and other pests. It disrupts the insects' digestive system and is relatively safe for humans and pets in small quantities.
• Preservative: Borax can preserve flowers and other plant materials. It's used in a process called borax crystalization, which replaces the water in plant cells, keeping the plant material relatively unchanged and preventing decay.
• Fire Retardant: Borax is sometimes used as a fire retardant in various applications, including wood treatment and fireproof coatings.
• Crafts and Slime Making: Borax is used in crafting, particularly in making slime. It acts as a cross-linking agent for the polymer chains in glue, creating a gooey, stretchy substance.
• pH Buffer: Borax can be used as a pH buffer in chemical laboratories and certain chemical processes.

Physical Properties:

• Physical State: Borax occurs as colorless or white crystals.
• Solubility: It is soluble in water, meaning it can be easily dissolved for use in solutions.
• Melting Point: Borax melts at a temperature of approximately 742°C (1368°F).
• Density: Its density varies depending on the form, but generally, it is around 1.73 g/cm³.
• Water Content: Decahydrated borax has a water content of 47.42% by mass.