Why is it iron 2 and not iron 3?

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In summary, the oxidation state of iron in a compound depends on factors such as the chemical environment and electronic configuration. Iron 2 is more stable than iron 3, making it more commonly found in compounds. The difference between iron 2 and iron 3 is their oxidation states, affecting their properties. Iron can change its oxidation state through specific chemical reactions, but this is not a spontaneous process.
  • #1
Maisara-WD
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Why is it iron 2 and not iron 3?

Hi all

Upon the reaction of Hydrochloric acid with Iron.. the following equation represents the reaction:

Fe + 2HCl -------> FeCl2 + H2


Why isn't the product FeCl3? I don't understand what makes it not possible for iron to form this chloride salt.. why isn't the equation:

2Fe + 6HCl --------> 2FeCl3 + 3H2
 
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  • #2


You will have to compare redox potentials to see the reason. H+ is not an oxidizer strong enough to oxidize iron beyond 2+.
 
  • #3


tahnx
 

1. Why is it iron 2 and not iron 3?

Iron is a transition metal that can exist in different oxidation states, including +2 and +3. The specific oxidation state of iron in a compound depends on various factors such as the chemical environment and the electronic configuration of the compound. In the case of iron, the +2 oxidation state is more stable than the +3 oxidation state, which is why it is more commonly found in compounds.

2. How is the oxidation state of iron determined?

The oxidation state of iron is determined by the number of electrons that iron has either lost or gained in a compound. In the +2 oxidation state, iron has lost 2 electrons, while in the +3 oxidation state, it has lost 3 electrons. This can be determined through various methods such as chemical analysis and spectroscopy.

3. What is the difference between iron 2 and iron 3?

The main difference between iron 2 and iron 3 is their oxidation states. Iron 2 has a +2 oxidation state, while iron 3 has a +3 oxidation state. This affects the chemical and physical properties of the compounds they are found in. For example, iron 2 compounds tend to be more soluble in water compared to iron 3 compounds.

4. Why is iron 2 more common than iron 3?

As mentioned earlier, the +2 oxidation state of iron is more stable than the +3 oxidation state. This means that iron is more likely to form compounds with a +2 oxidation state rather than a +3 oxidation state. Additionally, the +2 oxidation state is favored in certain chemical environments, making iron 2 more common in nature.

5. Can iron change its oxidation state?

Yes, iron can change its oxidation state in certain chemical reactions. For example, iron 2 can be oxidized to iron 3 by reacting with an oxidizing agent. Similarly, iron 3 can be reduced to iron 2 by reacting with a reducing agent. However, these reactions are not spontaneous and require specific conditions to occur.

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