Page 20 - Curriculum Visions Dynamic Book

Iron compounds
Iron is well known for its magnetic qualities, its ability to bend
under pressure and its tendency to go rusty in air. But just how many, if any, of these characteristics are inherited by iron compounds?
The relationship of iron compounds to iron can be investigated by mixing iron and sulphur. The results of heating the mixture are described here.
 Iron and sulphur form distinctively coloured powders. When mixed the dark brown iron can be seen speckling the yellow sulphur.
Iron filings
Sulphur
Mixture of iron filings and sulphur
Iron filings separated by magnet
Mixture of iron filings and sulphur
 Iron is magnetic, so a magnet will draw the iron from the iron/sulphur mixture. At room temperature the mixture can thus easily be separated.
 If the mixture is heated strongly with a Bunsen flame, as shown above, it will begin to glow red.
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