Inorganic reactions
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How can you prove that hydrated iron(II) sulphate contains some water of crystallisation? I thought it might be similar to copper sulphate which changes colour when it is heated. If it is, could you let me know the colour change for iron(II) sulphate?
Ulex replies
Gentle heating of hydrated iron(II) sulphate (pale green crystals) produces the anhydrous salt (white powder) with the evolution of water vapour, which could be collected and tested. Stronger heating results in the evolution of sulphur dioxide and sulphur trioxide leaving a residue of iron(III) oxide.
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updated: 07 April 2005
