What does the chemical formula FeSO4 represent?

What does the chemical formula FeSO4 represent?

• A. Ferrous sulfate
• B. Ferrous oxide
• C. Ferric sulfate
• D. Ferric oxide

Answer: (A)

The chemical formula FeSO4 represents ferrous sulfate. This compound consists of iron (Fe), which in this case is in the +2 oxidation state (indicated by the 'ferrous' designation), combined with sulfate (SO4). In ferrous sulfate, iron is in its lower oxidation state, and it typically appears as a blue-green crystal when hydrated. This makes it notably different from ferric compounds, which would indicate iron in the +3 oxidation state. Therefore, recognizing the oxidation states associated with different compounds is essential for identifying them correctly. The terms used in the other options, like 'ferric,' signify a different oxidation state of iron, which is not applicable here.

The chemical formula FeSO4 represents ferrous sulfate. This compound consists of iron (Fe), which in this case is in the +2 oxidation state (indicated by the 'ferrous' designation), combined with sulfate (SO4). In ferrous sulfate, iron is in its lower oxidation state, and it typically appears as a blue-green crystal when hydrated. This makes it notably different from ferric compounds, which would indicate iron in the +3 oxidation state. Therefore, recognizing the oxidation states associated with different compounds is essential for identifying them correctly. The terms used in the other options, like 'ferric,' signify a different oxidation state of iron, which is not applicable here.