How to Make a 10% Epsom Salt Solution

Epsom salt is magnesium sulfate, an inorganic compound with the chemical formula MgSO4. This compound has vast applications in many areas, including chemistry, agriculture and medicine. For example, Epsom salt is used to make a sedative bath, and in skin or hair care. The magnesium-sulfate solution reduces inflammation and swelling and relieves aches. As an example, consider a 10-percent solution using 350 ml of water.

Things You'll Need

• Distilled water
• Beaker
• Spoon (optional)

Instructions

1. Divide the water volume by a factor of "nine" to calculate the mass of Epsom salt needed. In our example, the mass of Epsom salt is 350 ml / 9 = 38.89 g. Note that 1 ml of water weighs 1 g and that the result is rounded to the second decimal point.

2. Weigh out the calculated amount, 38.89 g, of the Epsom salt on the scale.

3. Pour 350 ml of the distilled water into the beaker and add the Epsom salt.

4. Mix the solution with the spoon or gently swirl the beaker until the salt is dissolved.

References

• Chemistry; K.W. Whitten, R.E. Davis, L. Peck and G.G. Stanley; 2009
• Ways to Use Epsom Salt