[Bearhat54]

Hey guys, I can't seem to balance this equation for the life of me.

Fe₂O₃+HCl=>FeCl+H₂O

I don't even know if this is the right equation, because I'm pretty sure it's a double replacement. If not, the question asks, "what is the balanced equation for ____g of Iron Oxide mixing with _____mL of HCl?" (The numbers aren't important at this step). Every time I try to balance the equation, it just keeps raising  the numbers in a continuous circle.

Thanks!

[UG]

The formula isn't FeCl. What is the oxidation state of iron in Fe₂O₃? Assuming that's what they mean when they say iron oxide rather than FeO.

[Bearhat54]

So is it not a double replacement? Because I need to know what goes on the right hand side of the equation. Because like I said, I'm not sure what goes on that side.

[UG]

Yes it is a double replacement, but the iron containing product formed is FeCl₃

[Bearhat54]

FeCl₃? Really? Where did the extra two Chlorines come from?

[ramboacid]

Think about what the charge of Fe is in Fe₂O₃. Since this is double replacement and not redox, the charge of Fe should be the same in both the reactants and products that is a part of.

[Leonardo]

Fe₂O₃ + 6HCl  2FeCl₃ + 3H₂O

[Arkcon]

Fe₂O₃ + 6HCl  2FeCl₃ + 3H₂O

Hey there Leonardo:, I can tell that you're very new to the Chemical Forums.  But I'd like to let you know anyway, we like to give hints, to help people solve problems for themselves.  Its less like cheating, and more useful to the student, and less boring.  So try not to just dump a complete answer to each thread you find.  Its written at the end of the Forum Rules, linked to the top of every forum page, in Red.