Dichromate - Definition

Chromates and Dichromates are salts of chromic acid.

The Chromium atom is in oxidation state VI, and these ions are fairly strong oxidizing agents.

In aqueous solution, yellow chromate (CrO₄^2-) and orange dichromate (Cr₂O₇^2-) ions are in a dynamic equilibrium. This equilibrium is pushed towards dichromate by lowering the pH - a classic demonstration of Le Chatelier's principle.

They are used in environmental analysis to measure chemical oxygen demand (COD).

They are carcinogenic.