What is the name and molar mass of Fe2O3?
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The chemical compound Fe₂O₃ is known as iron(III) oxide, commonly referred to as ferric oxide. Its molar mass is calculated based on the atomic masses of its constituent elements: iron (Fe) and oxygen (O).
To determine the molar mass, we use the following atomic masses:
- The atomic mass of iron (Fe) is approximately 55.85 g/mol.
- The atomic mass of oxygen (O) is approximately 16.00 g/mol.
The formula Fe₂O₃ indicates that there are two iron atoms and three oxygen atoms in each formula unit of the compound. The calculation for the molar mass of Fe₂O₃ is as follows:
[
\text{Molar Mass of Fe₂O₃} = (2 \times \text{Atomic mass of Fe}) + (3 \times \text{Atomic mass of O})
]
[
= (2 \times 55.85 \, \text{g/mol}) + (3 \times 16.00 \, \text{g/mol})
]
[
= 111.70 \, \text{g/mol} + 48.00 \, \text{g/mol}
]
[
= 159.70 \, \text{g/mol}
]
Thus, the molar mass of Fe₂O₃ is approximately 159.70 g/mol.
Iron(III) oxide is a reddish-brown compound that is widely found in nature as the mineral hematite. It is primarily used in various applications, including the production of iron and steel, as a pigment in paints and coatings, and in the manufacture of ceramics. In biological contexts, iron oxides play a role in the metabolism of iron, which is crucial for numerous biological processes. Furthermore, Fe₂O₃ is a key component in the development of magnetic materials and serves as a catalyst in various chemical reactions.
In summary, iron(III) oxide (Fe₂O₃) has a molar mass of about 159.70 g/mol and plays significant roles in industrial applications and biological systems.