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Analysis of Copper(II) Hydroxide (Cu(OH)₂)

Qualitative analysis

Aim

To analyse the given inorganic salt for one acidic and one basic radical.

Preliminary Test

  • Colour: Blue
  • Odour: Odourless
  • State: Crystalline solid
  • Solubility: Insoluble in water

Test of Anion (OH⁻)

ExperimentObservationInference
Universal IndicatorSolution turns blue or purpleOH⁻ may be present
Confirmatory Test
Phenolphthalein Test
Add phenolphthalein indicator to salt solution
Solution turns pinkOH⁻ is confirmed

Test of Cation (Cu²⁺)

ExperimentObservationInference
Original solution + H₂S gas in presence of dil. HClBlack precipitate of Group-II A is formedGroup-II cation may be present
Confirmatory Tests
Ammonium Hydroxide Test
To the original solution (or the filtrate after dissolving the black ppt in dilute HNO₃) add NH₄OH dropwise, then in excess
Pale blue precipitate of Cu(OH)₂ dissolves in excess NH₄OH giving a deep blue tetraamminecopper(II) solutionCu²⁺ is confirmed
Potassium Ferrocyanide Test
Acidify the solution with acetic acid and add potassium ferrocyanide
Chocolate-brown precipitate of copper ferrocyanidePresence of Cu²⁺ is confirmed

Result

The given salt contains Cu²⁺ as the cation (basic radical) and OH⁻ as the anion (acidic radical). The salt is Copper(II) Hydroxide (Cu(OH)₂).

Precautions

  1. Handle the chemicals with care.
  2. Don't use excess of chemicals.
  3. Keep the mouth of the test tube away from the face.