Notebook Theme

Experiment No. N

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

Aim

To determine the presence of anion and cation in the given salt

Preliminary Test

  • Odor: Odorless
  • Texture: Crystalline
  • Color: White
  • Solubility: Soluble in water

Test of Anion

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

ExperimentObservationInference
Original solution + H₂S gas in presence of dil. HClBlack precipitate of Group-II A is formedGroup-II cation may be present
Confirmatory Test
Potassium Ferrocyanide Test
Dissolve the black precipitate in dilute nitric acid, boil the filtrate and then add potassium ferrocyanide
Chocolate brown precipitatePresence of Cu²⁺ is confirmed

Result

The given salt contains Cu²⁺ ions as cation and OH⁻ ions as anion. The salt is 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.