Question

A student states that sulfates are bad for our planet because they warm the planet. Now that you have a much greater understanding of the chemistry of various molecules, please help enlighten this student.

Answer 1

Note that the student is most likely confused with "sulfur oxide related compounds"

since sulfates are mainly solids, and are not likely to be toxic, since SO4-2 is pretty soluble

sulfates --> SO4 and SO3- ions are typically found in minerals and salts... they do not have any effect in global warming

the only effect that could exist is if we treat those sulfates in order to force S to for SO2 and SO3 gases

but regarding that.... we can ignore this applications