Question

Assume that you have an aqueous solution containing Pb²⁺, Na⁺, Fe³⁺, and K⁺ ions. You need to devise a way to separate the ions from one another. Which of the following statements is NOT correct regarding your method?

A) Na⁺ and K⁺ ions can be separated by precipitation of potassium with sulfate ions.

                       B) Pb²⁺ ions can be precipitated as PbCl₂ by adding a source of chloride ions.

                       C) Iron(III) ions can be precipitated as Fe(OH)₃ by adding a source of hydroxide ions

                       D) Sodium and potassium cannot be separated by precipitation

                      

Please Explain:

Answer 1

Since most of the salts of alkali metals i.e. group 1 metals are highly water soluble so they can't b separated through precipitation. Hence Na and K can't b separated by precipitation. The hydroxide of Fe3+ is sparingly soluble in water so Fe can be separated as Fe(OH)3. The Pt can be separated by converting it into PtCl2 as it is insoluble in water and forms a brown precipitate.

Using above discussion we can say that statements B,C and D are correct and statement A is Not Correct