What happens when ionic compound such as copper 2 sulfate dissolves in water?

When copper(II) sulfate dissolves in water, the ionic bonds holding the copper and sulfate ions together in the solid lattice break. The individual copper ions (Cu2+) and sulfate ions (SO4^2-) then become surrounded by water molecules, a process known as hydration. This results in a solution of copper(II) sulfate ions dispersed in water.