4. How do zeolites function as ion exchangers?

The framework aluminum and silicon are bound to each other through shared oxygen atoms. The SiO4 units are neutral: Si+4 / 4 O- but the AlO4 results in a net negative charge: Al+3 / 4O- . The net negative charge is balanced by cations that are present during the synthesis. These cations are highly mobile and can be exchanged for other cationic species.

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1. What are zeolites?
2. When were zeolites discovered?
3. What are some of the major applications for zeolites?
4. How do zeolites function as ion exchangers?
5. How many types of zeolites are there?
6. Are zeolites stable?
7. How do zeolites separate molecules?
8. Are zeolites re-useable?
9. How can zeolites be modified?
10. In what forms are zeolites available?
11. When were synthetic zeolites first made?
12. Are new zeolites still being discovered?
13. What makes zeolites special when compared with other inorganic oxide materials?
14. What are the health and safety aspects of zeolites?