Problems obtaining ferric oxide

  • Context: High School 
  • Thread starter Thread starter Matt16
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the process of creating ferric oxide (Fe2O3) through electrolysis, specifically addressing the unexpected formation of a bluish-green substance during the experiment. Participants explore the nature of this substance and suggest corrections to the procedure to achieve the desired rust formation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant describes their method of producing ferric oxide using a piece of iron, a battery charger, and a graphite wire, noting the formation of a bluish-green substance.
  • Another participant questions whether the bluish-green substance could be FeO, suggesting it as a possibility.
  • A different participant proposes that the substance might be an oxide of copper, attributing this to the wire being an alloy that participates in the reaction.
  • One participant mentions alternative methods for producing rust, referencing another thread for further information.
  • Another participant asserts that the bluish-green substance is likely a copper compound, indicating uncertainty about the electrochemical processes involved.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the identity of the bluish-green substance, with no consensus reached on its composition or the best method to obtain ferric oxide.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights uncertainties regarding the electrochemical reactions taking place, the materials used, and the definitions of the compounds involved.

Matt16
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I am making ferric oxide (Fe2O3) for a school project. I have immersed a piece of iron in a solution of tap water and salt (to allow for electrical conductivity). The piece of iron in attached to the positive terminal of a battery charger and the negative wire is attached to a section of graphite from a pencil. When i plug in the charger, the negative wire starts bubbling and after a while, a blueish-green substance begins to form at the bottom of the container and on the piece of iron.

What is this substance bluish-green? How do i correct my procedure to obtain rust?
 
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What color is FeO? This is a pure guess on my part, but could you be making that?
 
My guess is that it's an oxide of copper. The wire you're using is most-likely an alloy of it, and it is participating in the reaction.
 
Hello, the bluish-green substance is more likely to be a copper compound rather than iron. The how and why of it is uncertain for now, it may involve electrochemical oxidation order.
 

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