Tests are used to identify ions in three salts X, Y and Z - Edexcel - GCSE Chemistry - Question 2 - 2015 - Paper 1
Question 2
Tests are used to identify ions in three salts X, Y and Z.
(a) (i) In a flame test salt X gives a yellow flame.
What is the metal ion in salt X?
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Worked Solution & Example Answer:Tests are used to identify ions in three salts X, Y and Z - Edexcel - GCSE Chemistry - Question 2 - 2015 - Paper 1
Step 1
What is the metal ion in salt X?
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Answer
The metal ion in salt X is sodium, Na⁺. This is because sodium gives a characteristic yellow flame during a flame test.
Step 2
Describe how a flame test is carried out on a solid.
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Answer
To perform a flame test on a solid, follow these steps:
Clean a platinum or nichrome wire loop by dipping it in hydrochloric acid and then holding it in the flame until it burns without color.
Allow the wire to cool, then dip it into the solid sample to pick up a small amount.
Place the wire into the flame of a Bunsen burner and observe the color produced.
The color indicates the presence of specific metal ions.
Step 3
Describe what you would see when the barium chloride solution is added.
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Answer
When barium chloride solution is added to the mixture containing sulfate ions, a white precipitate of barium sulfate, BaSO₄, is formed. This indicates the presence of sulfate ions in salt Y.
Step 4
Describe what is seen when sodium hydroxide solution is added to a solution of Z.
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Answer
When sodium hydroxide solution is added to a solution containing iron(III) ions, Fe³⁺, a reddish-brown precipitate of iron(III) hydroxide, Fe(OH)₃, is seen. This occurs as the iron ions react with hydroxide ions to form the insoluble hydroxide.