The formula for iron phosphate depends on the oxidation state of the iron. The most common form of iron phosphate is iron(III) phosphate, also known as ferric phosphate, which has the formula FePO4.
Here's a breakdown:
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Iron(III) Phosphate (FePO4): This is the most common form. The iron ion has a +3 charge (Fe3+), and the phosphate ion has a -3 charge (PO43-). These charges balance, resulting in the neutral compound FePO4. It is also known as Ferric Phosphate. More information can be found on the Iron(III) phosphate Wikipedia page.
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Iron(II) Phosphate (Fe3(PO4)2): Also called ferrous phosphate. In this case, the iron ion has a +2 charge (Fe2+). To balance the -6 charge from two phosphate ions (2 x PO43-), three iron(II) ions are required. This results in the formula Fe3(PO4)2.
Therefore, while the term "iron phosphate" can refer to different compounds depending on the oxidation state of iron, FePO4 is generally implied unless otherwise specified.
