Fe₃O₄ commonly known as Iron (III) Oxide or magnetite, is a naturally occurring black colored mineral made of iron and oxygen. It’s unique because it contains iron in two different oxidation states Fe2+ and Fe3+ which makes it a mixed oxide. You’ll often come across it in chemistry, geology, and physics due to its strong magnetic properties. In exams and competitive test, Fe₃O₄ is a commonly featured topic as it ties into important concepts like oxidation number, bonding, and real world applications. Let’s scroll down to explore its formula, structure, properties, and uses.

Iron Oxide Formula

Fe₃O₄ has a cubic crystal structure called an inverse spinel. In this structure, Fe3+ ions are found in both tetrahedral and octahedral positions, while Fe+2 ions are only in octahedral positions. Oxygen ions from the base of the structure. This unique arrangement gives Fe₃O₄ its strong magnetic properties.

Oxidation Number of Iron Oxide in Fe3O4

Molar Mass of Fe3O4

Properties of Iron Oxide (Fe3O4)

Physical properties of Iron Oxide

Fe₃O₄ is a black or dark brown solid with a metallic or shiny look. It is hard and dense in nature. One of its most important features is magnetism: it gets attracted to magnets and can even behave like a magnet itself. This is why it’s commonly known as magnetite. It does not have any smell and is not soluble in water.

Chemical properties of Iron Oxide

Fe₃O₄ is chemically stable in air and doesn’t easily react under normal conditions. However, it reacts with strong acids like hydrochloric acid to form iron salts and hydrogen gas. It also shows a mixed oxidation state, which allows it to take part in redox (reduction-oxidation) reactions. These chemical properties make it useful in batteries, catalysis, and other industrial processes.

Uses of Iron Oxide (Fe3O4)

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