I’m trying to precipitate out FePO4.

Question

I’m trying to precipitate out FePO4.
Following the reaction: H3PO4 + FeCl3 = FePO4(s) + 3HCl
I reacted phosphoric acid to ferric chloride, and according to the reaction, there should be a precipitate. But I haven’t observed a precipitate for the last 3 hours. Is there a need for a buffer to stop the pH changing due to the formation of HCl?

P.S. This not a homework, it's a project.

 · Answer

I do not think there are many chemistry tutors on this website. I have noticed that most chemistry questions do not get answered. I hope that you do well on your project though! :)

eyerus · Answer

I can not do

DrBob222 · Answer

What do you mean there are many chem tutors on this site? Ridculous. Most chem questions are answwered within a few hours.

DrBob222 · Answer

I would not be as concerned with the HCl formed from the reaction as I would from the initial H3PO4. FePO4 is soluble in acid. With strong H3PO4 complexes can form AND the H3PO4, although a weak acid, is relatively strong for the first ionization. I would prepare FePO4, if that is the project, with Na3PO4 and FeCl3.