Borax: Chemical Properties, Uses and Occurrence

Category: General Science / Chemistry

UPSC Notes

Borax is a naturally occurring boron compound commonly known as sodium tetraborate decahydrate.

  • Chemical formula: \(\mathrm{Na_2B_4O_7 \cdot 10H_2O}\)

  • Elements present: Sodium, boron, oxygen and hydrogen.

  • Nature: Crystalline mineral salt.

  • Occurrence: Found in certain evaporite deposits and saline lake environments.

Major uses

  • Manufacture of glass and fibreglass.

  • Ceramics and glazes.

  • Certain cleaning and industrial products.

  • Metallurgical applications and chemical manufacturing.

  • Production of other boron compounds.

Key Pointers for UPSC

  • Borax is a compound of boron, an element in Group 13 of the periodic table.

  • Borax and boric acid are different chemical substances.

  • Borax is used in several industrial applications.

  • Boron compounds have specialised applications in glass, ceramics and materials science.

  • Excessive exposure or ingestion can be harmful; borax should not be treated as a food ingredient or a harmless household substance.