* Iron (Fe) can have multiple charges: Iron can form ions with a +2 charge (Fe²⁺) or a +3 charge (Fe³⁺).
* Chlorine (Cl) always has a -1 charge: Chlorine forms ions with a -1 charge (Cl⁻).
To form a neutral compound, the charges of the ions must balance. Here are the two possible formulas:
1. Iron(II) chloride (FeCl₂): This is formed when iron has a +2 charge (Fe²⁺) and combines with two chloride ions (2Cl⁻). The charges balance out: (+2) + 2(-1) = 0.
2. Iron(III) chloride (FeCl₃): This is formed when iron has a +3 charge (Fe³⁺) and combines with three chloride ions (3Cl⁻). The charges balance out: (+3) + 3(-1) = 0.
Therefore, the correct formula for the compound formed by iron and chlorine depends on the charge of the iron ion, and it can be either FeCl₂ or FeCl₃.
