Notebook Theme

Experiment No. N

Analysis of Zinc Hydroxide (Zn(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 NH₄OHWhite precipitate is formedGroup IV cation may be present
Confirmatory Tests
Sodium Hydroxide Test
Add sodium hydroxide solution dropwise
White precipitate forms and dissolves in excess NaOH on heatingZn²⁺ is confirmed
Potassium Ferrocyanide Test
After neutralisation with NH₄OH, add potassium ferrocyanide solution
Bluish-white precipitateZn²⁺ is confirmed

Result

The given salt contains Zn²⁺ ions as cation and OH⁻ ions as anion. The salt is Zn(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.