* Fe(OH)₃ is a weak base: It reacts with acids to form soluble salts.
* Le Chatelier's Principle: When an acid is added, it reacts with the hydroxide ions (OH-) from Fe(OH)₃. This reaction shifts the equilibrium to favor the dissolution of more Fe(OH)₃ to replace the consumed OH- ions.
Example:
Fe(OH)₃(s) + 3H⁺(aq) ⇌ Fe³⁺(aq) + 3H₂O(l)
By adding a strong acid like HCl, the H⁺ ions will react with the OH⁻ ions, driving the equilibrium to the right, increasing the solubility of Fe(OH)₃.
Important Note: While acidic solutions increase solubility, extremely high acidity might lead to the formation of other complexes, which could decrease the solubility of Fe(OH)₃.
