Structure
The term "sub" refers to the high oxygen content in the molecule and the presence of Bi-O moieties.
Characterization of the properties of bismuth subsalicylate has been difficult due to its insolubility and its partial hydrolysis. Two crystal structures are observed, them being:
- with a Bi38O44 core
- with a Bi9O7 core
It is believed that the latter cluster gives rise to the former, leading researchers to believe that they may be extrapolated to form larger clusters. This may be the basis for bismuth subsalicylate's extreme insolubility.
Other bismuth carboxylates have typically been trapped using chelating amines such as Bipyridine. Attempts to do so with bismuth subsalicylate have typically led to a loss of the "sub" portion of the molecule.
Read more about this topic: Bismuth Subsalicylate
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