Heating of the brown ring complex

[mooncrater]

Homework Statement

I am confused about the heating of the unstable complex:
##[Fe(H_2O)_5(NO)]SO_4##
In one place I read that it gives ##FeSO_4## , whereas in other place it says ##Fe_2(SO_4)_3##.
So which one is correct?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

I really don't have any clue about this one.
Thanks.
Any help appreciated.

 

[nate808]

Hello,

I understand your confusion about the heating of the unstable complex ##[Fe(H_2O)_5(NO)]SO_4##. The reason for the discrepancy between the two results you found is likely due to the different conditions under which the heating was performed. Let me explain further.

When heating this complex, it is possible for two different reactions to occur, depending on the temperature and duration of heating. At lower temperatures, the complex will undergo a single displacement reaction, resulting in the formation of ##FeSO_4##:

##[Fe(H_2O)_5(NO)]SO_4 + H_2O \rightarrow FeSO_4 + HNO_3 + 5H_2O##

However, at higher temperatures and longer heating times, a double displacement reaction can occur, resulting in the formation of ##Fe_2(SO_4)_3##:

##[Fe(H_2O)_5(NO)]SO_4 + 2H_2O \rightarrow Fe_2(SO_4)_3 + HNO_3 + 5H_2O##

This explains why you found two different products from different sources. It is important to note that the exact conditions of the heating were not specified in your question, so it is difficult to determine which product is more likely to form. However, both reactions are valid and can occur under different conditions.

I hope this helps to clear up your confusion. If you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to ask. Keep up the good work in your studies!