Iron (Fe) commonly exhibits two main oxidation states:
- +2 (Ferrous, Fe²⁺)
- Has lost two electrons.
- Less stable in air because it can easily oxidize to +3.
- Example: FeSO₄ (iron(II) sulfate)
- +3 (Ferric, Fe³⁺)
- Has lost three electrons.
- More stable in air and aqueous solutions.
- Example: FeCl₃ (iron(III) chloride)
Less common oxidation states:
- +6 (in some ferrates, very rare)
In short:
- +2 → ferrous
- +3 → ferric
- Iron mostly forms compounds in +2 and +3 oxidation states.