Why is it important that the sequence of addition of reagents be followed? What could possibly go wrong when this is not followed?
Reagents added:
1st: Fe3+ solution
2nd: 2.00 mL 10% NH2OH-HCl (hydroxylamine hydrochloride)
3rd: excess 0.20% 1,10-phenanthroline
4th: 1.00 mL HOAc-NaOAc buffer
Because certain chemicals react much faster with others, so in order for the experiment to work properly, they need to go into the mixture in a certain order.
It is important to follow the specified sequence of addition of reagents in a chemical reaction because each reagent often plays a specific role and may interact differently with other reagents or the reactants. By following the sequence, we ensure that the reaction proceeds efficiently and yields the desired products.
If the sequence is not followed, several things could potentially go wrong:
1. Reaction Failure: Some reactions require particular reagents to be added first to initiate the reaction or create a suitable environment for the subsequent reactions. If these initial reagents are not added first, the reaction may fail to occur or proceed as expected.
2. Side Reactions: Different reagents may have different reactivity and selectivity. Adding reagents out of order can lead to side reactions that produce unintended and undesirable products. This is especially true when dealing with reactive or sensitive compounds.
3. Formation of Inactive or Unreactive Species: Certain reagents may react with each other or with the reaction products to form inactive or unreactive species. Adding reagents in the correct order prevents the formation of such species and ensures a productive reaction.
In the specific example you provided, the order of addition is as follows:
1st: Fe3+ solution
2nd: 2.00 mL 10% NH2OH-HCl (hydroxylamine hydrochloride)
3rd: excess 0.20% 1,10-phenanthroline
4th: 1.00 mL HOAc-NaOAc buffer
Following this order helps to ensure that the Fe3+ solution is in the correct environment to react with subsequent reagents and form the desired products. Not following this order may lead to incomplete or unwanted reactions, which can affect the accuracy and reliability of the experiment or analysis being performed.