Abstract

This article provides a brief overview of the preparation, composition, properties, and uses of the principal compounds of iron. The compounds are divided into salts and simple coordination compounds, chelate compounds, organometallic compounds, and compounds of biological relevance. Whereas compounds of iron in the + 2 and + 3 oxidation state are the most common, eg, salts of iron(II) are known for almost all the common anions, higher oxidation states are known to exist, even in biological compounds. Moreover, organometallic iron is formally lower in the oxidation state. Iron compounds find commercial applications throughout the chemical industry as catalysts, pharmaceuticals, dyes, pigments, and indicators. Many iron compounds are magnetic and may be found in magnets and in recording media as well as in microwave technology. Sections on economic aspects, analytical methods, and health and safety considerations are included.