Final answer:
Zinc sulfate's role in simple flotation processes as well as it being a more active metal than iron is discussed in the context of high school chemistry. Its use in selective precipitation and its crystalline structure contribute to students' understanding of chemical reactions and material properties.
Step-by-step explanation:
When discussing zinc sulfate in the context of simple flotations, we are looking into its chemical properties and interactions, particularly in an educational setting like high school chemistry. Zinc, an active metal, tends to act as a sacrificial anode due to its high reactivity, especially in comparison to metals like iron. This means that in an electrochemical cell, zinc will dissolve, contributing to processes such as selective precipitation where it can be separated from other metals like cadmium as insoluble sulfide salts. The solubility equilibria for this reaction is represented as ZnS(s) → Zn²+ (aq) + S²- (aq). Additionally, the cubic form of zinc sulfide known as zinc blende crystallizes in an FCC unit cell, adding another layer of comprehension to high school chemistry students learning about crystal structures and the behavior of substances during chemical reactions.
The antimicrobial properties of heavy metals, like zinc, are another aspect of chemistry that relates to health and safety standards. Knowledge that copper sulfate and similar compounds (e.g., zinc sulfate) play a role in controlling microbial growth enriches the understanding of the practical applications of chemistry in everyday life.