Iron(III) sulfate

Iron(III) sulfate, also known as ferric sulfate, is a chemical compound. It has iron in its +3 oxidation state and sulfate ions. 

Properties
It is a white to yellow to pale purple crystalline solid. It is a weak oxidizing agent. It dissolves in water to make an acidic solution.

Occurrence
It is found as a mixed iron(III) aluminium sulfate. This is the anhydrous form. Several hydrated forms are found, too. Much more iron(III) sulfate is found in Mars. One of the rovers that travel on Mars got stuck in a pit of iron(III) sulfate and could not get out.

Preparation
It is made by mixing sulfuric acid, iron(II) sulfate, and an oxidizing agent like nitric acid or hydrogen peroxide together. It is made when iron(III) oxide reacts with sulfuric acid. It is also made when iron(II) sulfate is oxidized by exposure to oxygen.

Uses
It is used as a mordant in dyeing. It is also used to coagulate waste to remove the toxic parts. It is also used in baths to clean metals. It can be used as a pigment. It is used as an astringent in medicine. It stops bleeding.

Related pages
Iron(III) chloride
Iron(II) chloride

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Category:Sulfates
Category:Iron compounds