Question is based on following passage:

p-block elements are placed in groups 13 to 18 of the periodic table. Group 15 is nitrogen family. Nitrogen makes various compounds like \(NH_3\), \(HNO_3\), \(N_2O\), \(NO_2\) etc. Phosphorus exists in the form of white and red phosphorus. White phosphorus glows in dark. \(PH_3\), gas is used as smoke screen. Group 16 is called oxygen family. Dry air contains 21% \(O_2\) gas by volume. Combined sulphur exists as sulphates such as gypsum, epsome salt, baryte etc. The allotropic forms of sulphur are Rhombic and monoclinic sulphur. \(S_2\) is paramagnetic like \(O_2\) and it stable at high temperature. Group 17 is Halogen family. \(F_2\), is highly reactive, \(Cl_2\), is greenish yellow gas. Both \(SO_2\), and \(Cl_2\), are used for bleaching. Group 18 is Noble gas family but some noble gases also form compounds. Complete hydrolysis of \(XeF_6\) gives \(HF\) and \(XeO_3\), as main products.

Sulphate of magnesium, of the following is:

Epsom salt

The correct answer is option 2. Epsom salt.

Epsom salt, chemically known as magnesium sulphate heptahydrate (\(MgSO_4 \cdot 7H_2O\)), is a hydrated magnesium sulphate compound. It is commonly referred to as Epsom salt because it was first discovered in Epsom, England. This compound consists of magnesium (Mg) ions and sulphate (\(SO_4^{2-}\)) ions. Magnesium is a metal element, and sulphate is a polyatomic ion containing sulphur and oxygen.

The term "heptahydrate" indicates that there are seven water molecules (\(H_2O\)) associated with each formula unit of magnesium sulphate. This means that in Epsom salt, there are seven water molecules bound to each magnesium sulphate molecule.

Applications:

Laxative: Epsom salt is commonly used as a laxative to relieve constipation. When ingested, it can draw water into the intestines, promoting bowel movements.

Bath Salts: Epsom salt is often added to bathwater to promote muscle relaxation and relieve soreness. The magnesium ions can be absorbed through the skin, where they may help relax muscles and reduce inflammation.

Fertilizer: In gardening and agriculture, Epsom salt is sometimes used as a fertilizer to provide plants with magnesium and sulfur, which are essential nutrients for plant growth.

Other Uses: Epsom salt has various other applications, including as a component in some beauty products, as a soil amendment for magnesium-deficient soils, and even in certain medical treatments.

So, Epsom salt is the correct option when referring to the sulfate of magnesium.