Iodate anions are negatively charged ions that contain iodine and oxygen, specifically represented as IO3⁻. They are part of a group of compounds known as oxyanions, which consist of a central atom bonded to oxygen atoms. Iodate is commonly found in various chemical reactions and is used in analytical chemistry and as a source of iodine in some applications. These anions can be formed through the oxidation of iodine in the presence of oxygen. Iodate salts, such as KIO3 (potassium iodate), are often used in food preservation and as a dietary supplement to provide iodine, which is essential for thyroid function in humans.