copper sulfate science definition

A crystalline salt that is soluble in water and slightly soluble in alcohol. In its anhydrous form it is white, and in its hydrous form it is blue. Copper sulfate is used in agriculture, textile dyeing, leather treatment, electroplating, and the manufacture of germicides. In its blue form it is also called blue vitriol. Chemical formula: CuSO₄·5H₂O.