Log out Go to App
Go to App

Learning Materials

Features

Discover

Chapter 17: Problem 61

Both \(\mathrm{KCl}\) and \(\mathrm{NH}_{4} \mathrm{Cl}\) are white solids. Suggest one reagent that would enable you to distinguish between these two compounds.

Short Answer

Expert verified
The reagent that can be used to distinguish between KCl and NH4Cl is sodium hydroxide (NaOH). When mixed with the compounds, NH4Cl reacts to form NH3 gas with a strong smell, whereas KCl remains unreactive.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding the properties of KCl and NH4Cl

Potassium Chloride (KCl) and Ammonium Chloride (NH4Cl) are both Chlorides but have different cations. KCl consists of K+ and Cl- ions. NH4Cl consists of NH4+ and Cl- ions. The primary difference between them lies in their cations.
02

Choosing the right reagent

When considering a reagent to distinguish between these two compounds, we need to think of a reagent that would react differently with NH4+ and K+. One possible reagent is NaOH (Sodium Hydroxide).
03

Explaining the action of the reagent

When Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH) is added to these compounds, it will react differently. NH4Cl reacts with NaOH to release ammonia gas (NH3), which has a distinct sharp, pungent smell. On the other hand, KCl does not react with NaOH, and there would be no gas evolved.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

  • Full Textbook Solutions

    Get detailed explanations and key concepts

  • Unlimited Al creation

    Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...

  • Ads-free access

    To over 500 millions flashcards

  • Money-back guarantee

    We refund you if you fail your exam.

Start your free trial

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!

One App. One Place for Learning.

All the tools & learning materials you need for study success - in one app.

Get started for free

Most popular questions from this chapter

What are the criteria for choosing an indicator for a particular acid-base titration?

The solubility product of \(\mathrm{PbBr}_{2}\) is \(8.9 \times 10^{-6} .\) Determine the molar solubility (a) in pure water, (b) in \(0.20 M\) KBr solution, (c) in \(0.20 \mathrm{M} \mathrm{Pb}\left(\mathrm{NO}_{3}\right)_{2}\) solution.

How does a common ion affect solubility? Use Le Châtelier's principle to explain the decrease in solubility of \(\mathrm{CaCO}_{3}\) in a \(\mathrm{Na}_{2} \mathrm{CO}_{3}\) solution.

A sample of \(0.96 \mathrm{~L}\) of \(\mathrm{HCl}\) at \(372 \mathrm{mmHg}\) and \(22^{\circ} \mathrm{C}\) is bubbled into \(0.034 \mathrm{~L}\) of \(0.57 \mathrm{MH}_{3}\). What is the \(\mathrm{pH}\) of the resulting solution? Assume the volume of solution remains constant and that the \(\mathrm{HCl}\) is totally dissolved in the solution.

Define solubility, molar solubility, and solubility product. Explain the difference between solubility and the solubility product of a slightly soluble substance such as \(\mathrm{BaSO}_{4}\) .
See all solutions

Recommended explanations on Chemistry Textbooks

Making Measurements

Read Explanation

Kinetics

Read Explanation

Nuclear Chemistry

Read Explanation

Ionic and Molecular Compounds

Read Explanation

Physical Chemistry

Read Explanation

The Earths Atmosphere

Read Explanation
View all explanations

What do you think about this solution?

We value your feedback to improve our textbook solutions.

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.

Sign-up for free