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6. Transition Elements  eLearn.Punjab

4FeCr2O4 + 8K2CO3 + 7O2 →8K2CrO4 + 2Fe2O3 + 8CO2

6.6.2 Properties
Structure of Chromate Ion

Almost all the chromates are yellow in colour.
Some of them are used as pigments. For instance,
insoluble lead chromate, PbCrO4, is employed for
the preparation of yellow oil colour called yellow
crown.

     K2CrO4 and K2Cr2O7 show similar
properties, because in an aqueous solution
Cr2O72- and CrO42- ions exist in equilibrium.

       2CrO42− + 2H + �� ���� Cr2 2O72− + H2O

If an alkali is added to such a solution the hydroxyl ions will bind the hydrogen
ion in solution, the equilibrium will shift towards left and, as a result,
dichromate ions will be converted into chromate ions. Similarly on adding
an acid the equilibrium will shift towards right and dichromate ions will
be formed.

6.6.3 Potassium Dichromate (K2Cr2O7)
Preparation

1. K2CrO4 is converted to K2Cr2O7 by using the above mentioned
equilibrium. In an acidic medium, the equilibrium will shift in the
forward direction i.e changing chromate ions into dichromate ions.

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