Copper sulfate / Blue vitriol / Bluestone / Copper sulfate pentahydrate

Copper sulfate is a chemical compound with several applications in various fields. It goes by a few other names and has several benefits. 

Dosage and Uses:

1. Agricultural Use (as a pesticide, fungicide, and herbicide):

Dosage: The typical dosage for agricultural use depends on the specific application and crop. A common formulation for controlling fungal diseases (like downy mildew or powdery mildew) is 1-3 tablespoons per gallon of water. It's often combined with other chemicals like lime to make Bordeaux mixture (a popular fungicide).

Precaution: Always follow the manufacturer's instructions or consult an agricultural extension service to avoid overdosing, as copper sulfate can be toxic to plants if overused.

2. Water Treatment (for algae control in ponds or lakes):

Dosage: The amount needed depends on the size of the water body. A common recommendation is 1-2 pounds per acre-foot of water. It’s important to apply it slowly and in controlled amounts to avoid harming aquatic life.

Precaution: Overuse can lead to copper toxicity in fish and other aquatic life.

3. Medical Uses:

Dosage: Copper sulfate is used in small doses for treating copper deficiency in the human body. Copper sulfate may be taken orally in doses like 1-2 mg per day, but only under medical supervision.

Precaution: High doses can be toxic and cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is generally used for diagnosing or treating copper deficiencies in medical scenarios.

4. Industrial Use:

Copper sulfate is used in electroplating, in batteries, and as a mordant in dyeing fabrics.

Benefits of Copper Sulfate:

1. Antimicrobial:

Copper sulfate has strong antifungal, antibacterial, and algicidal properties. It's commonly used to treat fungal infections on crops and even on plants in domestic settings.

2. Prevention of Copper Deficiency:

In both humans and animals, copper sulfate can help prevent copper deficiency, which can lead to anemia, poor growth, and other health problems.

3. Algae Control:

In water bodies, copper sulfate is used to reduce algae growth, keeping water clean and preventing blockages in irrigation systems.

4. Soil Improvement:

It can be used to correct copper deficiency in soil, improving plant growth and productivity.

5. Fungicide and Pesticide:

Used extensively as a fungicide in agriculture, it helps protect crops from a variety of diseases caused by fungi and other pathogens.

6. Molecular Biology:

Copper sulfate is used in DNA precipitation and certain laboratory procedures.