What is the formula of rust?

Study for the IGCSE Edexcel Chemistry Test. Access flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

What is the formula of rust?

Explanation:
Rust is hydrated iron(III) oxide formed when iron reacts with oxygen in the presence of water. The oxide part of rust is Fe2O3, where iron is in the +3 oxidation state. In practice rust often includes water molecules, so it’s written as Fe2O3·nH2O, but Fe2O3 captures the main oxide formula. The other options correspond to different iron oxides: FeO is iron(II) oxide, Fe2O2 is not a standard oxide, and Fe3O4 is magnetite, not rust. So the rust formula is Fe2O3.

Rust is hydrated iron(III) oxide formed when iron reacts with oxygen in the presence of water. The oxide part of rust is Fe2O3, where iron is in the +3 oxidation state. In practice rust often includes water molecules, so it’s written as Fe2O3·nH2O, but Fe2O3 captures the main oxide formula. The other options correspond to different iron oxides: FeO is iron(II) oxide, Fe2O2 is not a standard oxide, and Fe3O4 is magnetite, not rust. So the rust formula is Fe2O3.

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