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Sulfates (AQA GCSE Chemistry): Revision Note

Stewart Hird

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Test for sulfate ions

  • To test for sulfate ions acidify the sample with dilute hydrochloric acid and then add a few drops of barium chloride solution

  • If a sulfate is present then a white precipitate of barium sulfate is formed:

Ba2+ (aq) + SO42- (aq) → BaSO4 (s)

  • The test can also be carried out with barium nitrate solution

Test for sulfate ions

Diagram to show test for sulfate ions

A white precipitate of barium sulfate is a positive result for the presence of sulfate ions

Examiner Tips and Tricks

HCl is added first to remove any carbonates which may be present and would also produce a precipitate and  interfere with the results.

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    Stewart Hird

    Author: Stewart Hird

    Expertise: Chemistry Lead

    Stewart has been an enthusiastic GCSE, IGCSE, A Level and IB teacher for more than 30 years in the UK as well as overseas, and has also been an examiner for IB and A Level. As a long-standing Head of Science, Stewart brings a wealth of experience to creating Topic Questions and revision materials for Save My Exams. Stewart specialises in Chemistry, but has also taught Physics and Environmental Systems and Societies.