What is the chemical formula for iron (III) oxide?

The chemical formula for iron (III) oxide is Fe2O3. This compound is also called hematite, iron ore and specularite. Hematite is a mineral naturally found on earth and appears as a gray or reddish compound.

Iron (III) oxide results naturally when iron and oxygen come into contact at high temperatures. The reaction that takes place is written as follows: 4Fe + 3O2 ? 2Fe2O3. Iron (III) oxide is also produced synthetically. During this process, iron salts, such as ferrous sulphate, are calcined under oxidizing conditions. Depending on the specific conditions under which the reaction takes place, the resulting compound presents various colorations. Iron (III) oxide does not have carcinogenic properties.