What type of bond is formed in the reaction 4Fe(s)+3O2(g)? Rust?
Isn't Fe2O3 mostly ionic?
The type of bond formed in the reaction 4Fe(s) + 3O2(g) is an ionic bond. This reaction represents the formation of iron(III) oxide, commonly known as rust.
To understand this, we need to break down the reaction:
4Fe(s) + 3O2(g) → 2Fe2O3(s)
In this reaction, iron (Fe) atoms react with oxygen (O2) molecules to form iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3). Iron atoms lose three electrons each, while oxygen gains two electrons each. This electron transfer results in the formation of Fe3+ ions and O2- ions. Due to the opposite charges, the Fe3+ and O2- ions are attracted to each other, forming ionic bonds.
Rust, which is brownish-red in color, is a common form of corrosion for iron and iron-based alloys exposed to oxygen and moisture. The formation of iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3) by the reaction between iron and oxygen is an example of this process.