- Detailed information about the chemical equation:
The chemical equation above describes the chemical reaction between Pyrite (FeS2) and Oxygen (O2) to create Iron(II) Sulfate (FeSO4) and Sulfur Dioxide (SO2).
FeS2 is Pyrite, also known as Iron Sulfide, which is a solid with a golden color, commonly found in mines.
O2 is Oxygen, a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas at standard temperature and pressure.
FeSO4 is Iron(II) Sulfate, also known as Green Vitriol, which is a green solid.
SO2 is Sulfur Dioxide, a colorless gas with a distinct, strong, toxic smell.
- Reaction conditions:
To trigger the reaction, a sufficiently high temperature (typically a heating temperature) must be provided.
- Reaction process:
When heated in the air (containing O2), Pyrite (FeS2) will react with Oxygen (O2) to create Iron(II) Sulfate (FeSO4) and Sulfur Dioxide (SO2).
- Phenomena occur:
When the reaction takes place, FeS2 is oxidized, changing from the golden color to the green color of FeSO4. Concurrently, it mixes with the colorless of SO2, creating a distinct, strong smell of SO2 gas. Note that SO2 is a toxic gas and exposure should be limited.