Verification of iron(III) with thiocyanate

Chemicals needed

distilled water

Iron(III) chloride solution Xn    R 22-38-41    S 26-39

potassium thiocyanate Xn     R 20/21/22-30    S 13

Equipment needed

test tube

Test procedure

• Dissolve in a test tube one spatula-tipful of potassium cyanide in approx. 1 ml water.
• Add 2-3 drops of iron(III) chloride solution. A deep, blood-red color results.

Disposal

• The diluted solution can be discharged into the drainage.

Elucidation

An intense colored iron(III) thiocyanate arises. In this manner one can verify iron(III) as well as thiocyanate. In the case of pure iron(II) there is no coloration.

Photos

Iron(III) solution after the addition of thiocyanate

Literature

Execution of experiment 1847 S,"Kaliumrhodanid ", p. 322, [2]