The chemical equation for its formation can be represented as:
Fe³⁺(aq) + 3OH⁻(aq) → Fe(OH)₃(s)
Here's what the equation represents:
* Fe³⁺(aq): Iron(III) ions in aqueous solution.
* 3OH⁻(aq): Hydroxide ions in aqueous solution.
* Fe(OH)₃(s): Iron(III) hydroxide, a solid yellow precipitate.
This reaction occurs when a solution containing iron(III) ions is mixed with a solution containing hydroxide ions, typically from a base like sodium hydroxide (NaOH). The hydroxide ions react with the iron(III) ions to form the insoluble iron(III) hydroxide, which then precipitates out of solution as a yellow solid.