Ferrous iron is a term commonly used to describe iron that is present in the +2 oxidation state. The spelling of this word can be a bit tricky, but one way to explain it is through the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription. The word "ferrous" is pronounced /ˈfɛrəs/ (feh-ruhs), with the stress on the first syllable. "Iron" is pronounced /ˈaɪərn/ (eye-urn), with the stress on the second syllable. So, when combined, the pronunciation of "ferrous iron" is /ˈfɛrəs ˈaɪərn/ (feh-ruhs eye-urn).
Ferrous iron refers to the form of iron that is characterized by its two positive electric charges, also known as a divalent cation. It is denoted by the chemical symbol Fe2+ and is derived from the element iron (Fe) through the loss of two electrons. Ferrous iron is the more common and stable oxidation state of iron in many chemical and biological processes.
In terms of its physical properties, ferrous iron is typically a pale green color and soluble in water. It can easily form compounds with various anions, resulting in the creation of many different compounds. Ferrous iron is often found in minerals and ores, such as iron pyrite and hematite. It can also be obtained through the reduction of ferric iron (Fe3+) under appropriate conditions.
Because ferrous iron has a high affinity for oxygen, it readily reacts with oxidative agents, resulting in the formation of ferric iron. This process, known as oxidation, leads to a change in the chemical properties of iron. Ferrous iron is particularly susceptible to oxidation in the presence of oxygen and moisture, causing it to rust and form ferric oxide (Fe2O3).
In summary, ferrous iron refers to the divalent form of iron, denoted as Fe2+. It is commonly found in nature and can easily react with oxygen, leading to the formation of ferric iron.
The word "ferrous iron" has its etymology rooted in Latin and Old English.
The term "ferrous" comes from the Latin word "ferrum", meaning "iron". "Ferrum" is also the origin of the chemical symbol "Fe" for iron on the periodic table.
The word "iron" has its roots in Old English, derived from the Proto-Germanic word "isarnan". This word has cognates in other Germanic languages, such as the Old High German "isarn" and Old Norse "jarn". The word "iron" originally referred to the metal itself.
When combined, "ferrous iron" emphasizes that the iron being referred to is in its ferrous state, meaning that it has a valence of +2. This is a common state for iron in chemical compounds.