When hydrated copper sulfate (CuSO₄·5H₂O), also known as copper(II) sulfate pentahydrate, is heated, it loses its water of hydration and becomes anhydrous copper sulfate (CuSO₄). This process is called dehydration.

Here's a breakdown:

* Hydrated copper sulfate (CuSO₄·5H₂O): This is the blue crystalline form of copper sulfate that contains five water molecules attached to each copper sulfate molecule.

* Heating: Applying heat provides the energy needed to break the bonds between the copper sulfate and the water molecules.

* Anhydrous copper sulfate (CuSO₄): This is the white powdery form of copper sulfate without any water molecules attached.

The reaction can be represented by the following equation:

CuSO₄·5H₂O (blue) → CuSO₄ (white) + 5H₂O (g)

The water molecules are released as steam during the heating process.