Iron(II) oxide, also called ferrous oxide, is a black-colored powder with the chemical formula FeO. It consists of the element iron in the oxidation state of 2 bonded to oxygen.
- Molecular weight: 71.85
- Melting Point: 1370°C
- CAS number: 1345-25-1
Iron oxide powder combined with aluminium powder forms a mixture called thermite. When ignited, thermite produces aluminium oxide and molten iron in a highly exothermic reaction. Thermite reactions are extremely hazardous unless appropriate precautions are taken.
Iron(II) oxide should not be confused with rust, which usually consists of iron(III) oxide.