* Initial Color: Ferrous sulfate is typically pale green when hydrated.
* Heating Stage 1: Upon heating, ferrous sulfate loses its water of crystallization, turning into a white anhydrous form (FeSO₄). This is a dehydration reaction.
* Heating Stage 2: Further heating leads to the decomposition of ferrous sulfate into ferric oxide (Fe₂O₃), sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and sulfur trioxide (SO₃). This process is accompanied by a color change from white to yellowish-brown.
* Final Product: The final product, ferric oxide, is a reddish-brown solid.
Therefore, the color of ferrous sulfate upon heating can be:
* White (anhydrous form)
* Yellowish-brown (during decomposition)
* Reddish-brown (final product, ferric oxide)
The exact color you observe might vary depending on the heating temperature and the specific conditions.