Identification of Anions (Cambridge O Level Chemistry)

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Alexandra Brennan

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Identification of Anions

12-3-1-anions-tests

  • The acidification with aqueous silver nitrate and aqueous barium nitrate / chloride is done to remove ions that might give a false positive result
    • The most common ion that is removed is the carbonate ion
    • The choice of acid has to be considered so that it does not influence the results
    • For example, aqueous silver nitrate solution should not be acidified with hydrochloric acid as this will form a white precipitate due to the chloride ion in the acid
    • For example, aqueous barium nitrate / chloride solution should not be acidified with sulfuric acid as this will form a white precipitate due to the sulfate ion in the acid

Examiner Tip

When it comes to qualitative inorganic analysis, always remember that there will be a test for the metal cation part of the molecule and another test for the anion part. 

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Alexandra Brennan

Author: Alexandra Brennan

Expertise: Chemistry

Alex studied Biochemistry at Newcastle University before embarking upon a career in teaching. With nearly 10 years of teaching experience, Alex has had several roles including Chemistry/Science Teacher, Head of Science and Examiner for AQA and Edexcel. Alex’s passion for creating engaging content that enables students to succeed in exams drove her to pursue a career outside of the classroom at SME.