Qualitative Analysis

In inorganic chemistry Identifying the acid and basic radical present in a salt is identified in a systematic using some reagents. the acid radicals are carbonate ion, chloride ion, Bromide ion, iodide ion, nitrate ion, sulphide ion and sulhate ion. All carbonate salts will be amorphous in its appearance.

Identification of carbonate

To the salt dilute hydrochloric acid is added. Brisk effervescence takes place.Colourless odourless gas come out which turns lime water milky.

Identification of sulphide ion

To the salt dilute hydrochloric acid is added. Colorless gas, rotten egg smell gas comes out which will turn lead acetate paper black.

II Group Acid Radicals

Chloride, bromide, iodide and nitrate are II group acid radicals

Brownring test

This is the confirmative test for nitrate

To the nitrate salt solution freshly prepared ferrous sulphate solution is added. Concentrated sulphuric acid is added along the side of the test tube. Brown ring appears at the junction of two layers which confirms the presence of nitrate radical.

III group acid radical is sulphite: and sulphate

To the salt solution barium chloride solution is added. To this dilute hydrochloric acid is added. If the precipitate dissolves it shows the presence of sulphite ion. If it does nt dissolve it shows the presence of sulphate ion.

Identification of Cations (Basic Radicals)

Note to do the following test the salt solution should be tasken. If the salt does not dissolve in water, it should be dissolved in dilute hydrochloric acid.