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While diluted HCl and HNO3 can dissolve Fe2O3, it's unlikely to occur without gas evolution at pH 3 and 60°C. Here's why:
Reaction with HCl:
Fe2O3 + 6HCl → 2FeCl3 + 3H2O
This reaction produces water, but the chloride ions can react with iron ions to form FeCl3, a soluble salt. However, the reaction is likely to be slow at pH 3 and 60°C.
Reaction with HNO3:
Fe2O3 + 6HNO3 → 2Fe(NO3)3 + 3H2O
This reaction is more complex. HNO3 is a strong oxidizing agent. While it can dissolve Fe2O3, it can also oxidize Fe(II) to Fe(III) and produce nitrogen oxides (NOx) as byproducts. This is the most likely source of gas evolution in this case.
To minimize gas evolution:
Use a very dilute concentration of HNO3.
Increase the temperature. Higher temperatures can accelerate the reaction and lead to the formation of more Fe(III), reducing the production of NOx.
Use an inert atmosphere like nitrogen to prevent air oxidation of iron ions.
Note: The exact conditions for gas-free dissolution depend on factors like the concentration of acids, the surface area of Fe2O3, and the rate of agitation.