Iron(III) chloride is a compound formed by the combination of iron and chlorine. It is used as a catalyst, in water treatment, and as a reagent in chemical reactions.
| IUPAC Name | Iron(III) chloride |
| Molecular Formula | FeCl₃ |
| CAS Number | 7705-08-0 |
| Synonyms | Ferric chloride, Iron trichloride, trichloroiron |
| InChI | InChI=1S/ClH.3Fe/h1H;;;/q;;3*+3/p-3 |
Iron(III) Chloride Properties
Iron(III) Chloride Formula
The formula of iron trichloride is FeCl₃. It represents the combination of one iron atom (Fe) and three chlorine atoms (Cl). This formula indicates the stoichiometric ratio of each element in the compound.
Iron(III) Chloride Molar Mass
The molar mass of iron trichloride is calculated by summing the atomic masses of all its constituent elements. Iron has an atomic mass of 55.845 g/mol, while chlorine has an atomic mass of 35.453 g/mol. By multiplying the atomic mass of iron by one and the atomic mass of chlorine by three, we get a molar mass of 162.204 g/mol for iron trichloride.
Iron(III) Chloride Boiling Point
Iron trichloride has a boiling point of approximately 315 °C (599 °F). At this temperature, the compound undergoes a phase transition from a liquid to a gas. The boiling point is a measure of the vapor pressure exerted by the substance when its temperature reaches a specific value.
Iron(III) Chloride Melting Point
The melting point of iron trichloride is about 306 °C (583 °F). This temperature represents the point at which the solid compound transforms into a liquid. The melting point is a characteristic property of a substance and helps identify it.
Iron(III) Chloride Density g/mL
The density of iron trichloride is approximately 2.90 g/mL. Density is defined as the mass of a substance per unit volume. iron trichloride’s density indicates that it is a relatively dense compound.
Iron(III) Chloride Molecular Weight
The molecular weight of iron trichloride is calculated by summing the atomic weights of its constituent elements. With one iron atom weighing 55.845 g/mol and three chlorine atoms weighing 35.453 g/mol each, the molecular weight of iron trichloride is 162.204 g/mol.
Iron(III) Chloride Structure
Iron trichloride has a crystal lattice structure. It forms an ionic bond, with the iron atom (Fe³⁺) attracting three chlorine ions (Cl⁻). The resulting compound adopts a crystalline arrangement where positively charged iron ions are surrounded by negatively charged chloride ions.
Iron(III) Chloride Solubility
Iron trichloride is soluble in water, ethanol, and other polar solvents. When dissolved in water, it undergoes dissociation, forming Fe³⁺ cations and Cl⁻ anions. The solubility of iron trichloride in water is influenced by factors such as temperature and concentration, with higher temperatures and concentrations leading to increased solubility.
| Appearance | Yellow-brown solid |
| Specific Gravity | 2.90 g/mL |
| Color | Yellow-brown |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Molar Mass | 162.204 g/mol |
| Density | 2.90 g/mL |
| Melting Point | 306 °C (583 °F) |
| Boiling Point | 315 °C (599 °F) |
| Flash Point | Not applicable |
| Water Solubility | Soluble, influenced by factors such as temperature and concentration |
| Solubility | Soluble in polar solvents |
| Vapor Pressure | Not available |
| Vapor Density | Not available |
| pKa | Not available |
| pH | Acidic (approximately 2) |
Iron(III) Chloride Safety and Hazards
Iron trichloride poses certain safety considerations and hazards. It is corrosive and can cause severe skin and eye irritation. Inhalation of its dust or fumes may lead to respiratory tract irritation. It is essential to handle this compound with caution, wearing appropriate protective equipment such as gloves and safety goggles. Avoid direct contact and inhalation of the substance. In case of skin or eye contact, rinse thoroughly with water and seek medical attention if necessary. Iron trichloride should be stored in a tightly sealed container, away from incompatible substances. Follow proper disposal procedures to prevent environmental contamination.
| Hazard Symbols | Corrosive (C) |
| Safety Description | Causes severe skin burns and eye damage. |
| UN IDs | UN3264 |
| HS Code | 2827.39.60 |
| Hazard Class | 8 |
| Packing Group | II |
| Toxicity | Moderately toxic to humans |
Iron(III) Chloride Synthesis Methods
Various methods can synthesize iron trichloride.
One common method involves the reaction between iron and chlorine gas. In a controlled environment, such as a reaction vessel, iron filings or iron powder combine with chlorine gas at elevated temperatures, typically around 300-500 °C (572-932 °F), initiated by heating the mixture. The iron reacts with the chlorine, resulting in the formation of iron trichloride.
Another method involves the reaction between iron oxide, commonly iron(III) oxide (Fe₂O₃), and hydrochloric acid (HCl). To promote the reaction, hydrochloric acid dissolves iron oxide, and the mixture undergoes heating. As the reaction progresses, it forms iron trichloride while liberating water.
Obtaining iron trichloride is also possible by directly reacting iron with concentrated hydrochloric acid. Adding the iron to the acid solution initiates the reaction, which proceeds with the evolution of hydrogen gas. Heating the resulting mixture facilitates the conversion of iron into iron trichloride.
It is important to note that these synthesis methods should be carried out with proper safety precautions and in well-ventilated areas, as some reactions involve the use of corrosive substances and the generation of toxic gases.
Iron(III) Chloride Uses
Iron trichloride finds applications in various fields due to its versatile properties. Here are some common uses:
- Water Treatment: Coagulation in water treatment processes extensively employs iron trichloride to remove impurities and suspended particles, rendering water suitable for consumption.
- Etching Agent: The electronics industry utilizes iron trichloride as an etching agent for producing printed circuit boards, selectively etching copper, and enabling the creation of circuit patterns.
- Catalyst: iron trichloride catalyzes various chemical reactions, including the synthesis of organic compounds and the chlorination of aromatic compounds.
- Pigment Production: The production of various pigments, such as iron blue and toners used in printing inks, involves the utilization of iron trichloride.
- Dye Manufacturing: Synthesis of dyes, particularly for coloring textiles, leather, and paper, employs iron trichloride.
- Metal Surface Treatment: Enhancing the corrosion resistance of metals, such as aluminum and stainless steel, involves utilizing iron trichloride as a surface treatment agent.
- Laboratory Reagent: Iron trichloride finds common usage as a reagent in laboratory settings for various analytical and synthetic purposes.
- Medicinal Applications: The preparation of certain pharmaceuticals, such as iron supplements and drugs used in the treatment of anemia, employs iron trichloride in medicine.
- Photography: Iron trichloride serves as a toning agent in photographic processes, creating sepia tones in black-and-white photography.
- Textile Industry: Mordanting and dyeing fabrics in the textile industry utilizes iron trichloride to improve colorfastness and dye absorption.
These diverse applications highlight the significance of iron trichloride in several industries and scientific fields.
Questions:
Q: What is the molar mass of iron(III) chloride, FeCl₃?
A: The molar mass of iron trichloride is 162.204 g/mol.
Q: How many atoms of iron are in one formula unit of iron(III) chloride?
A: There is one atom of iron in one formula unit of iron trichloride.
Q: What is the formula for iron(III) chloride?
A: The formula for iron trichloride is FeCl₃.
Q: What is the percent composition by mass of iron in iron(III) chloride?
A: The percent composition by mass of iron in iron trichloride is approximately 34.8%.
Q: What is the formula for iron(III) chloride?
A: The formula for iron trichloride is FeCl₃.
Q: What is the molar mass of iron(III) chloride?
A: The molar mass of iron trichloride is 162.204 g/mol.
Q: How to make iron(III) chloride?
A: Iron trichloride can be made by reacting iron with chlorine gas or by dissolving iron oxide in hydrochloric acid.
Q: Is iron(III) chloride acidic?
A: Yes, iron trichloride is acidic and can lower the pH of a solution.
Q: What are the products of the reaction between zinc metal and iron(III) chloride?
A: The reaction between zinc metal and iron trichloride produces zinc chloride and iron metal.
Q: Is iron(III) chloride toxic?
A: Iron trichloride is moderately toxic to humans and can cause skin and eye irritation.
Q: Is iron(III) chloride bad for the environment?
A: Iron trichloride can be harmful to the environment if released in large quantities, as it can contaminate water sources and affect aquatic life.
Q: How to dispose of iron(III) chloride?
A: Iron trichloride should be disposed of properly following local regulations for hazardous waste disposal. Contact the appropriate authorities for guidance.
Q: What is the molar mass of iron(III) chloride?
A: The molar mass of iron trichloride is 162.204 g/mol.