suppose as student returned some unused lead nitrate to the container marked sodium nitrate. what could the student do to get all the lead ions out from the sodium nitrate?
Add a solution of sodium chloride to the lead nitrate to precipitate Pb(NO3)2, while the sodium nitrate remains aqueous
Ian, I think you mean PbCl2 will ppt, while Na(NO3)2 remains in aqueous soln.
To separate the lead ions from the sodium nitrate, the student can utilize a process called precipitation. Here's how they can do it:
1. Gather the necessary materials: The student will need a suitable precipitating agent, such as sodium chloride (NaCl), from the school laboratory.
2. Prepare a test tube: Take a clean and dry test tube and label it accordingly to prevent confusion later on.
3. Add the mixture: Carefully transfer the container marked sodium nitrate into the test tube. Ensure that no excess trace of sodium nitrate is left in the original container.
4. Precipitating reaction: Now, add a small amount of sodium chloride (NaCl) to the test tube containing the sodium nitrate. Gently swirl the test tube to mix the contents.
5. Observe the reaction: If lead ions (Pb²⁺) were present, a white precipitate of lead chloride (PbCl₂) should form in the test tube.
6. Collect the precipitate: To separate the lead chloride from the remaining solution, the student can use a filtration setup. Place a filter paper in a funnel, and carefully pour the contents of the test tube through the filter. The precipitate of lead chloride will be retained by the filter paper, while the sodium nitrate solution will pass through.
7. Rinse and dry the precipitate: After filtration, wash the collected precipitate with distilled water to remove any traces of the sodium nitrate solution. Allow the precipitate to dry completely, either by air-drying or using a suitable drying method.
By following these steps, the student should be able to separate the lead ions (Pb²⁺) as lead chloride (PbCl₂) from the mixture initially labeled as sodium nitrate.