Copper sulfate, also known as cupric sulfate or copper(II) sulfate, is a chemical compound with the formula CuSO₄. It appears as a blue crystalline solid when hydrated, and is commonly found in its pentahydrate form (CuSO₄·5H₂O), known as blue vitriol. This compound is highly soluble in water and creates a mildly acidic solution. It is widely used in agriculture as a fungicide and pesticide, aiding in the control of fungal infections on crops. In addition to its agricultural uses, copper sulfate is employed in various industrial processes such as electroplating, as a coloring agent in glass and ceramics, and in the production of other copper-based chemicals. Despite its utility, copper sulfate can be toxic to aquatic life and should be handled with care to prevent environmental contamination.