Magnesium sulfate Stock Solution

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Stock Solution Preparation Guide – Magnesium Sulfate (MgSO₄) Solution

Magnesium sulfate (MgSO₄) is highly soluble in water. Laboratory stock solutions are commonly prepared from the heptahydrate form (MgSO₄·7H₂O, MW = 246.47 g/mol) because the anhydrous form is very hygroscopic and difficult to weigh accurately. A 1 M stock solution using MgSO₄·7H₂O is a standard reagent for many biochemical and cell culture applications.

Objective

Preparation of a 1 M magnesium sulfate stock solution (e.g., 100 mL).

Composition

• Magnesium sulfate (MgSO₄·7H₂O) aqueous solution at defined molarity

Required Materials

• Magnesium sulfate heptahydrate (MgSO₄·7H₂O)
• Deionized or distilled water
• Analytical balance
• Beaker or flask
• Graduated cylinder or volumetric flask
• Stirring rod or magnetic stirrer
• Personal protective equipment (gloves, goggles, lab coat)

Procedure

• Step 1
  To prepare 100 mL of 1 M MgSO₄ stock solution, accurately weigh **24.65 g** of magnesium sulfate heptahydrate (MgSO₄·7H₂O).
• Step 2
  Add the weighed salt to ~80 mL of deionized water in a beaker. Stir or swirl until completely dissolved.
• Step 3
  Transfer the solution to a volumetric flask and bring the final volume up to **100 mL** with deionized water. Mix thoroughly.
• Step 4 (Optional)
  For sterile applications, sterilize by autoclaving (121°C, 15–20 min) or filter through a **0.22 µm** membrane into a sterile container.

Note: Do not dissolve all solute directly in the final volume; large amounts of solute increase solution volume. Autoclaving is optional for non‑sterile use.

Available Reagents