ferrous sulfate

noun Chemistry, Pharmacology.

a bluish-green, crystalline, saline-tasting, water-soluble heptahydrated solid, FeSO4⋅7H2O, used chiefly in the manufacture of other iron salts, in water purification, fertilizer, inks, pigments, tanning, photography, and in medicine in the treatment of anemia.

Origin of ferrous sulfate

First recorded in 1860–65

Also called copperas, green vitriol, iron vitriol, iron sulfate.

ferrous sulfate in Science

A bluish-green crystalline compound that is used in sewage and water treatment, and as a pigment and fertilizer. It is also used in medicine to treat iron deficiency. Also called green vitriol. Chemical formula: FeSO4·7H2O.