Iron(II) to Iron(III) Oxidation by Oxygen

4Fe²⁺ + O₂ + 4H⁺ → 4Fe³⁺ + 2H₂O

Descripción general

Ferrous ions (Fe²⁺) are oxidized to ferric ions (Fe³⁺) by dissolved oxygen in acidic solution. This reaction is responsible for the yellowing of iron-containing groundwater upon exposure to air. The green Fe²⁺ solution turns yellow-brown as Fe³⁺ forms.

Participantes

Rol	Sustancia	Coeficiente	Estado
Reactivo	Oxygen O	1	(g)
Producto	Water H₂O	2	(l)

Ejemplo cotidiano

Well water that is clear underground but turns rusty brown when left standing is undergoing this oxidation of dissolved iron(II) by air.

Importancia industrial

La química redox del hierro(II)/hierro(III) es fundamental para el tratamiento del agua, la geoquímica, la ciencia del suelo y la ingeniería de la corrosión en múltiples industrias.

Propiedades

Tipo: Redox
Reversible: No
Energía: Exotérmico
ΔH: -176,0 kJ/mol

Reacciones relacionadas

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Iron(II) to Iron(III) Oxidation by Oxygen?

The balanced equation is: 4Fe²⁺ + O₂ + 4H⁺ → 4Fe³⁺ + 2H₂O.

What type of reaction is Iron(II) to Iron(III) Oxidation by Oxygen?

Iron(II) to Iron(III) Oxidation by Oxygen is a redox reaction.

Is Iron(II) to Iron(III) Oxidation by Oxygen exothermic or endothermic?

Iron(II) to Iron(III) Oxidation by Oxygen is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -176.0 kJ/mol.