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Iron(II) chloride

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Identification
Molecular formula
FeCl2
CAS number
7758-94-3
IUPAC name
dichloroiron
State
State

At room temperature, iron(II) chloride is typically found as a solid. In its anhydrous form, it is composed of crystalline structures that are white to pale green in color.

Melting point (Celsius)
670.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
943.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
1 026.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
1 299.00
General information
Molecular weight
126.75g/mol
Molar mass
126.7510g/mol
Density
2.9000g/cm3
Appearence

Iron(II) chloride appears as a white to pale green crystalline solid. It is highly soluble in water, forming a pale green solution. The compound is hygroscopic, meaning it tends to absorb moisture from the air, which can cause it to form a brownish color upon oxidation.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Dichloroiron

Dichloroiron, or FeCl2, displays varying solubility characteristics depending on the medium in which it is placed. When considering its solubility, several factors come into play:

  • Water Solubility: Dichloroiron is known to have moderate solubility in water. It tends to dissolve to form a colored solution, which is dependent on concentration.
  • Temperature Influence: The solubility of FeCl2 generally increases with temperature; hence, warmer solvents can aid in dissolving larger amounts.
  • Concentration Effects: In concentrated solutions, there may be a tendency to precipitate, as saturation limits are reached.
  • Acidic Conditions: The presence of acids can enhance the solubility of dichloroiron, leading to the formation of soluble iron complexes.

It is also worth noting that *solubility can be context-dependent*, influenced by factors such as pH, ionic strength, and the presence of other ions in solution. As one study found, "the solubility of dichloroiron is significantly altered in the presence of complexing agents or varying salt concentrations." Understanding these nuances is crucial for both experimental and industrial applications involving FeCl2.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Dichloroiron

Dichloroiron, often referred to by its systematic name, iron(II) dichloride, is a fascinating chemical compound that plays a significant role in various chemical reactions and industrial applications. Here are some noteworthy points:

  • Common Applications: Dichloroiron is commonly used as a catalyst in the synthesis of organometallic compounds. Its ability to facilitate reactions makes it invaluable in organic chemistry.
  • Hydrogen Production: This compound is also involved in processes for the production of hydrogen, showcasing its importance in the field of renewable energy.
  • Stability and Reactivity: Being a coordination complex, dichloroiron exhibits stability in certain conditions, but it can also undergo redox reactions, revealing its dynamic nature.
  • Historical Significance: The study of dichloroiron dates back to early studies of transition metals, highlighting the evolution of coordination chemistry.
  • Environmental Impact: Understanding how dichloroiron behaves in various environments is crucial for assessing its impact on ecosystems, particularly regarding metal contamination.

As a transition metal complex, dichloroiron not only plays a pivotal role in science and industry but also acts as a bridge connecting the principles of inorganic and organic chemistry. As you delve deeper into the world of this compound, you might encounter intriguing challenges related to its synthesis and applications, making it a vital subject of study for both chemists and students!

Synonyms
Iron dichloride
FeCl2
Ferrous dichloride
Iron(2+) chloride
Ferro 66
Iron protochloride
Natural lawrencite
HSDB 459
EINECS 231-843-4
UNII-S3Y25PHP1W
S3Y25PHP1W
CHEBI:30812
(FeCl2)
[FeCl2]
EC 231-843-4
231-843-4
7758-94-3
dtxcid809695
dtxsid9029695
ferrous chloride
ferrous chloride (mart.)
ironchloride
Iron(II) chloride
Dichloroiron
Iron (II) chloride
Iron(II)chloridetetrahydrate
Iron(II) chloride, anhydrous
Iron chloride (FeCl2)
Iron(II) chloride (1:2)
Fe(II) chloride
NA1759
iron (11) chloride
Ferrous chloride, solid
Iron(II) chloride, 98%
Iron(II) chloride, ultra dry
AKOS015902899
NCGC00248559-01
Ferrous chloride, solid [NA1759] [Corrosive]
Q407867
Iron(II) chloride, anhydrous, beads, -10 mesh, 99.9% trace metals basis
Iron(II) chloride, anhydrous, beads, -10 mesh, 99.99% trace metals basis
Iron(II) chloride, anhydrous, beads, -10 mesh, 99.998% trace metals basis