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Iron(II) carbonate

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Identification
Molecular formula
FeCO3
CAS number
563-71-3
IUPAC name
ferrous;carbonate
State
State

At room temperature, iron(II) carbonate is a solid. It is not very stable and can decompose or oxidize when exposed to air.

Melting point (Celsius)
0.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
0.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
0.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
0.00
General information
Molecular weight
115.85g/mol
Molar mass
115.8530g/mol
Density
3.9000g/cm3
Appearence

Iron(II) carbonate appears as a white solid; however, it is rarely found in pure form naturally. It can also appear in shades of green due to impurities, especially when oxidized to iron(III).

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Ferrous Carbonate

Ferrous carbonate, with the chemical formula FeCO3, exhibits interesting solubility properties. This compound is known for being relatively insoluble in water, which can be attributed to the formation of a stable lattice structure in its solid state. Here are some key points regarding its solubility:

  • Water Solubility: FeCO3 has a low solubility in water, generally around 0.01 g/100 mL at room temperature.
  • Effect of pH: The solubility of ferrous carbonate increases in acidic conditions due to the reaction with hydrogen ions, leading to the formation of soluble ferrous ions.
  • Common Solvent: It is often more soluble in acidic solutions, making it more accessible in environments where acidity is present.

As noted, the limited solubility of FeCO3 in neutral and basic conditions means that it may precipitate out of solution under such circumstances. Thus, understanding its solubility behavior is crucial for applications in which ferrous carbonate is involved, from geological processes to potential nutritional supplementation in agriculture.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Ferrous Carbonate

Ferrous carbonate, commonly recognized by its formula, is a fascinating compound with several unique properties and roles in both industrial and biological contexts. Here are some essential points to consider:

  • Versatile Applications: Ferrous carbonate is widely used in various applications, including as a pigment in ceramics and glass, as a flux in steel production, and as a dietary supplement for iron.
  • Biological Role: In biological systems, iron plays a crucial role, and ferrous carbonate can serve as a source of iron for organisms, particularly for those needing iron supplementation to prevent anemia.
  • Environmental Aspect: This compound can also be found in geological formations and plays a role in environmental geochemistry; it can influence the mobility of heavy metals in soil and water systems.
  • Reactivity: Ferrous carbonate readily reacts with acids, producing carbon dioxide and a corresponding ferrous salt. This property can be harnessed in various chemical reactions in laboratories and industry.
  • Historical Context: Historically, ferrous carbonate has been studied for its implications in mineralogy and geology. It is often found in sedimentary rocks and has been an important subject of study in understanding Earth's ancient environments.

As a compound of iron, ferrous carbonate emphasizes the significance of metal carbonates in chemistry and their multifunctional roles across different fields. As we continue to explore its characteristics, we can unlock further applications that can benefit a variety of industries.

In the words of a renowned chemist, "Understanding the interplay between elements and compounds like ferrous carbonate helps us appreciate the intricacies of both nature and industry."

Synonyms
FERROUS CARBONATE
563-71-3
Iron(2+) carbonate
Iron II carbonate
Ferrous monocarbonate
Blaud's mass
Iron carbonate (FeCO3)
Ferrum carbonicum
UNII-MZ3Q72U52O
HSDB 458
MZ3Q72U52O
EINECS 209-259-6
CHEBI:86235
IRON (2+) CARBONATE
Iron(II) carbonate
Siderite
14476-16-5
1335-56-4
iron(2+);carbonate
Ferronil
Carbonic acid, iron(2+) salt (1:1)
Iron(II) carbonate, tech. gr. (Siderite)
Ferrous Carbonate; Ferrous Monocarbonate; Iron Carbonate (FeCO3); Iron(2+) Carbonate; Iron(II) Carbonate;
MFCD00036308
starbld0000715
SCHEMBL43478
Iron(II) carbonate (FeCO3)
DTXSID8052225
FERROUS CARBONATE [HSDB]
FERRUM CARBONICUM [HPUS]
FERROUS CARBONATE [VANDF]
RAQDACVRFCEPDA-UHFFFAOYSA-L
FERROUS CARBONATE [WHO-DD]
DB13698
FF166050
Iron(II) carbonate, tech. gr. (Siderite)
NS00130166
Q4214595