Answer to Question #234240 in General Chemistry for Micad

Question

The reaction between nitric acid and sodium hydroxide solution produce sodium nitrate salt. Describe one confirmatory test for the anion of this salt.

Answer 1

A brown ring test can be used as confirmatory test fot nitrate anion.

Step 1: Take the solution of nitrate.

Step 2: Add iron(II) sulfate

Step 3: Slowly add concentrated sulphuric acid (H₂SO₄) such that the acid added forms a layer below the aqueous solution.

Result – A ring brown in color will be formed at the junction of the 2 layers. This indicates the presence of nitrate ion.