Ferric Phosphate Precipitation (Water Treatment)

FeCl3 + Na3PO4 → FePO4↓ + 3NaCl

Übersicht

Iron(III) chloride reacts with trisodium phosphate to form an insoluble yellowish-white precipitate of iron(III) phosphate (Ksp = 9.9 × 10⁻¹⁶). This precipitation is the primary method for removing phosphate from wastewater to prevent eutrophication of receiving waters.

Teilnehmer

Rolle Substanz Koeffizient Zustand
Reaktant Iron(III) Chloride FeCl₃ 1 (aq)
Produkt Sodium Chloride NaCl 3 (aq)

Alltägliches Beispiel

Iron phosphate is used as an organic slug bait in gardens, sold under brand names like Sluggo. It is safe around pets and wildlife.

Industrielle Bedeutung

Phosphate removal by iron(III) precipitation is a critical step in wastewater treatment worldwide, preventing algal blooms and eutrophication in lakes and rivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Ferric Phosphate Precipitation (Water Treatment)?
The balanced equation is: FeCl₃ + Na₃PO₄ → FePO₄↓ + 3NaCl.
What type of reaction is Ferric Phosphate Precipitation (Water Treatment)?
Ferric Phosphate Precipitation (Water Treatment) is a precipitation reaction.
Is Ferric Phosphate Precipitation (Water Treatment) exothermic or endothermic?
Ferric Phosphate Precipitation (Water Treatment) is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -95.0 kJ/mol.