What is the chemical equation for the rusting of iron carbide. I tried it myself,but I ended up with iron hydroxide rather than iron oxide. Help, Please, and thank you.

You can find your answer at the following site.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cementite

To determine the chemical equation for the rusting of iron carbide, we need to understand a few concepts. Rusting occurs when iron reacts with oxygen and moisture in the presence of an electrolyte. Iron carbide, also known as iron(II) carbide or ferrous carbide, has the chemical formula FeC.

First, we need to balance the equation for the oxidation of iron to form iron(III) oxide (rust). The balanced equation for the reaction is:

4 Fe + 3 O2 → 2 Fe2O3

Next, we need to identify the reactants and products in the rusting of iron carbide. Iron carbide (FeC) reacts with water (H2O) to form iron(II) hydroxide (Fe(OH)2) and methane gas (CH4) as the byproduct. The balanced equation for this reaction is:

FeC + 3 H2O → Fe(OH)2 + CH4

However, you mentioned that you obtained iron hydroxide instead of iron oxide. It's important to note that iron hydroxide (Fe(OH)2) is a possible intermediate product in the rusting process. Over time, iron hydroxide further reacts with oxygen in the air to form iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3), which is the common rust we observe.

To summarize, the complete chemical equation for the rusting of iron carbide includes the primary reaction of iron carbide with water to form iron hydroxide and the subsequent oxidation of iron hydroxide to form iron(III) oxide:

FeC + 3 H2O → Fe(OH)2 + CH4
4 Fe(OH)2 + O2 → 2 Fe2O3 + 4 H2O

I hope this explanation helps you understand the process better. Let me know if you have further questions!