Sulfite vs. Nitrite — What's the Difference?

Sulfites or sulphites are compounds that contain the sulfite ion (or the sulfate(IV) ion, from its correct systematic name), SO2−3. The sulfite ion is the conjugate base of bisulfite.

The nitrite ion has the chemical formula NO−2. Nitrite (mostly sodium nitrite) is widely used throughout chemical and pharmaceutical industries.

The divalent anionic group SO3, derived from sulfurous acid, or a compound containing this group.

A salt or ester of nitrous acid, containing the anion NO₂⁻ or the group —NO₂.

Any salt of sulfurous acid.

The univalent anionic group NO2, derived from nitrous acid, or a compound containing this group.

(chemistry) Any salt or ester of nitrous acid.

(chemistry) The univalent radical -NO₂, and the anion NO₂^-

A salt or ester of nitrous acid; a compound bearing the -NO2 radical.

The radical -NO2 or any compound containing it (such as a salt or ester of nitrous acid)