Question

You are given five solutions to identify. They include: H3PO4, Ba(NO3)2, KOH, KCl, and HgNO3. Develpe a plan for identifying which solution is which, and draw a flowchart with the results you anticipate.

Answer 1

Easiest to identify -->

KOH; since pH > 13 approx (base, use any acid, if there is heat release, then this is a base OR use pH meter)

H3PO4; since pH < 3 approx, (acid, use any base, if there is heat release then this is acid OR use pH meter)

left:

Ba(NO3)2; KCl; Hg2(NO3)2

to this mix, add NaCl;

Hg2+2 + 2Cl- --> Hg2Cl2(s)

expect solid formation

then;

Ba(NO3)2; KCl; left

add H2SO4, in order to form

Ba2+ + SO4-2 --> BaSO4(s)

finally

KCl --> Flame test, potassium gives off a purple/violet color when flamed