* Copper sulfate solution (CuSO₄·5H₂O): This is the hydrated form of copper sulfate, where the copper sulfate molecule is bonded to five water molecules. It's typically a blue crystalline solid that dissolves in water.
* Evaporation: The process of removing water from the solution by heating it.
* Anhydrous copper sulfate (CuSO₄): The water molecules are removed through evaporation, leaving behind the white, anhydrous copper sulfate powder.
Important Notes:
* The color change is a good indicator of the process. Blue hydrated copper sulfate turns white as it becomes anhydrous.
* The anhydrous copper sulfate can readily absorb water from the air, turning blue again (this is why it's called a desiccant).
* Be careful while heating the solution as it can splatter.
