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Iron(III) chloride

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Identification
Molecular formula
FeCl3
CAS number
7705-08-0
IUPAC name
trichloroiron
State
State

At room temperature, iron(III) chloride is typically a solid. The solid form is often in a crystalline state.

Melting point (Celsius)
306.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
579.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
315.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
588.00
General information
Molecular weight
162.20g/mol
Molar mass
162.2040g/mol
Density
2.9000g/cm3
Appearence

Iron(III) chloride appears as a dark green to black-brown crystalline solid. When it absorbs moisture from the air, it forms a yellowish solution due to hydrolysis. The color changes and solubility can vary depending on the hydration state of the chloride.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Trichloroiron

Trichloroiron, or iron(III) chloride (FeCl3), exhibits distinct solubility behavior that is important in various chemical contexts. This compound is known to be quite soluble in water, where it readily dissociates into its constituent ions:

  • Fe3+ ions
  • Cl- ions

When dissolved, trichloroiron forms a yellowish-brown solution, which can sometimes appear green depending on concentration and pH. Its solubility can be summarized as follows:

  1. High solubility in polar solvents, particularly water.
  2. Limited solubility in non-polar organic solvents.
  3. Temperature dependence: Solubility generally increases with temperature.

This compound's solubility is influenced by factors such as ion concentration and temperature. As a strong electrolyte, it conducts electricity when dissolved in water. The reaction to moisture can be quite profound; hence, care must be taken during handling. As noted, “the more polar the solvent, the better the solubility of trichloroiron.” Adjusting pH can further affect solubility, especially in biological and environmental settings. Understanding these solubility dynamics is critical for its application in research and industry.

Interesting facts

Trichloroiron: A Fascinating Compound

Trichloroiron, often denoted as iron(III) chloride, is a remarkable compound that has a variety of applications in both industrial and laboratory settings. Here are some intriguing aspects of this compound:

  • Coordination Chemistry: Trichloroiron plays a vital role in coordinating chemistry, acting as a Lewis acid that forms complexes with various ligands. This property makes it essential in studying transition metal complexes.
  • Water Treatment: One of the most notable uses of trichloroiron is in wastewater treatment. It aids in the removal of phosphates from water, helping control eutrophication in aquatic ecosystems.
  • Catalytic Activity: As a catalyst, this compound facilitates numerous reactions, including organic synthesis, making it invaluable in the realm of chemical manufacturing.
  • Historical Significance: The discovery of iron(III) chloride dates back several centuries. Its presence in various historical texts emphasizes its longstanding importance in chemistry.
  • Colorimetric Analysis: Trichloroiron is often used in colorimetric analysis due to its distinct coloration when in solution, allowing for the determination of iron presence in certain samples.

In summary, trichloroiron is not just another chemical compound; it serves various crucial purposes, particularly in the fields of environmental chemistry, catalysis, and coordination chemistry. Its versatility continues to inspire scientists and students alike to explore its vast possibilities in research and application.

Synonyms
FERRIC CHLORIDE
Iron(III) chloride
Iron trichloride
Flores martis
Iron perchloride
Chlorure perrique
Iron (III) chloride
Perchlorure de fer
Natural molysite
Iron chloride (Fe2Cl3)
FERRIC CHLORIDE, ANHYDROUS
FeCl3
Caswell No. 459
Chlorure ferrique
Iron sesquichloride (DOT)
Iron sesquichloride
U38V3ZVV3V
iron(3+) chloride
CCRIS 2299
HSDB 449
EINECS 231-729-4
NSC 51150
UNII-U38V3ZVV3V
EPA Pesticide Chemical Code 034901
NSC 135798
AI3-51902
CHEBI:30808
NSC-51150
NSC-135798
(FeCl3)
[FeCl3]
EC 231-729-4
IRON III CHLORIDE
FERRIC CHLORIDE (ANHYDROUS)
USEPA/OPP Pesticide Code: 034901
FERRIC CHLORIDE, (SOLID, ANHYDROUS)
231-729-4
dtxcid60622
dtxsid8020622
ferric chloride (ii)
ferric chloride anhydrous
iron (iii), chloride, hexahydrate
iron(3+) chloride, hexahydrate
7705-08-0
trichloroiron
Iron chloride (FeCl3)
MFCD00011005
Iron(III) chloride, anhydrous
Iron(III) chloride anhydrous
Iron chloride, solid
Ferric chloride, solid
WLN: FE G3
Chlorure ferrique [French]
Chlorure perrique [French]
Perchlorure de fer [French]
Iron(III)chloride
Fe(III) chloride
iron (III)chloride
UN1773
UN2582
iron (III) cloride
iron-(III) chloride
iron-(III)-chloride
iron (III) trichloride
Iron(III) chloride, CP
TDA Reagent, for microbiology
NSC51150
Iron(III) chloride, p.a., 98%
Fe/ppm Pd for nitro group reductions
NSC135798
AKOS015902743
DB15536
Iron(III) chloride,reagent grade, 97%
NCGC00249131-01
BP-31268
Iron(III) chloride, reagent grade, 97%
Iron(III) chloride, technical grade, 58%
Iron(III) chloride, anhydrous for synthesis
NS00093572
EN300-19478
Iron(III) chloride, LR, anhydrous, >=97%
Iron (III) chloride, Trace metals grade, 99.9%
Q399771
Ferric chloride, anhydrous [UN1773] [Corrosive]
F0001-1983
Iron(III) chloride, sublimed grade, >/=99.9% trace metals basis
Iron(III) chloride, sublimed grade, >=99.9% trace metals basis
Iron(III) chloride, anhydrous, powder, >=99.99% trace metals basis
Iron(III) chloride on silica gel, powder, extent of labeling: 5 wt. % loading