still need to know what chemical tests you can perform to distinguish the difference between a sample of iron and a sample of iron sulphide.
The response from Dr Russ was to suggest you answer and we would critique your answer. He added a note that we don't actually DO homework. I shall be happy to help you through it if you get something going.
would heating the samples in a test tube give a difference
That's another question, not an answer. What would happen if you added HCl to each sample in a separate test tube.
thank you
To distinguish between a sample of iron and a sample of iron sulfide, you can perform the following chemical tests:
1. Magnetic Properties: Iron is magnetic, while iron sulfide is not. If you have a magnetic material, it is likely iron.
2. Acid Reaction: Add dilute hydrochloric acid (HCl) to each sample. Iron reacts with acid, producing bubbles of hydrogen gas. Iron sulfide does not react with acid.
3. Sulfide Test: To confirm the presence of sulfur in the sample, you can conduct a sulfide test. Add a few drops of dilute hydrochloric acid to each sample, and hold a strip of filter paper moistened with lead acetate solution above it. If a black precipitate forms on the paper, it indicates the presence of sulfide ions, distinguishing it as iron sulfide.
4. Flame Test: Another test you can perform is the flame test. Heat a small amount of each sample in a non-luminous flame (e.g., a Bunsen burner). Iron emits a yellow-orange glow, while iron sulfide does not produce any specific color.
It should be noted that multiple tests should be performed to provide a more conclusive identification.