identify a chemical reagent that can be used to distinguish CaCl2 (soluable) from CaCO3 (insoluable). What is the distinguishing observation?
PLEASE, PLEASE don't misspell insoluble. There is no such word as insoluable or soluable. The words you seek are soluble and insoluble.
The chemical you want is an acid. Add an acid (acetic acid or hydrochloric acid) and the CaCO3 will fizz but CaCl2 will not.
To distinguish between CaCl2 (soluble) and CaCO3 (insoluble), you can use a chemical reagent called silver nitrate (AgNO3). Here's how to proceed:
1. Take a small sample of the unknown substance that may be CaCl2 or CaCO3.
2. Add a few drops of silver nitrate (AgNO3) solution to the sample.
3. Observe the reaction.
Now, let's discuss the distinguishing observations:
- If the sample contains CaCl2:
When silver nitrate (AgNO3) is added to CaCl2, a white precipitate called silver chloride (AgCl) will be formed. The formation of a white precipitate confirms the presence of CaCl2.
CaCl2 + 2AgNO3 → 2AgCl↓ + Ca(NO3)2
- If the sample contains CaCO3:
When silver nitrate (AgNO3) is added to CaCO3, no visible reaction will occur. This observation indicates that the substance is CaCO3 because it does not react with the reagent.
CaCO3 + 2AgNO3 → No reaction
Therefore, by adding silver nitrate and observing the formation of a white precipitate (AgCl), you can differentiate between CaCl2 (soluble) and CaCO3 (insoluble).