What chemical test do you use to distinguish between iron and iron sulphide (axcept using a magnet)?
One of the standard tests for arsenic in water is to apply ferric sulfide, if arsenic is there in any form, a reaction between arsenic and the sulfide will yield a bright yellow arsenic sulfide compound. So you could do the opposite, try to react an arsenic compound (aresnate will do) with the iron or iron sulphide. If the sulfide is present, you will get a bright yellow compound.
Magnets are easier.
To distinguish between iron and iron sulfide without using a magnet, you can perform a chemical test called the "acid test" or the "acidification test." Here's how you can do it:
1. Start by obtaining samples of both iron and iron sulfide. Make sure the samples are pure and free from any impurities.
2. Prepare a small test tube or glass container for each sample.
3. Place the iron sample in one container and the iron sulfide sample in another.
4. Add a few drops of dilute hydrochloric acid (HCl) to each container. The acid will react differently with iron and iron sulfide, allowing you to distinguish between them.
5. Observe the reaction in each container. If the sample in the first container (iron) reacts with the acid, you will see the evolution of bubbles of hydrogen gas. This reaction occurs because iron reacts with hydrochloric acid to produce iron chloride and hydrogen gas.
6. If the sample in the second container (iron sulfide) reacts with the acid, you will observe the release of a gas called hydrogen sulfide (H2S). Hydrogen sulfide has a characteristic smell of rotten eggs.
7. After observing the reactions, you can use the differences in gas evolution or odor to distinguish between iron and iron sulfide. Iron will produce bubbles of hydrogen gas, while iron sulfide will release hydrogen sulfide gas with a distinct odor.
Remember, it is essential to handle the materials and acids safely, wear appropriate protective gear, and perform the test in a well-ventilated area.
If you don't have access to iron sulfide or hydrochloric acid, you may need to consider other tests or consult a professional chemist for further analysis.