Which of the following pair of cations can be separated by using exces...
Explanation:
To determine which pair of cations can be separated using excess NH3 solution, we need to consider the solubility rules and the formation of complex ions.
Solubility Rules:
- Group 1 cations (Li+, Na+, K+, etc.) and ammonium ion (NH4+) are soluble and will not form precipitates.
- Most nitrate (NO3-) and acetate (CH3COO-) salts are soluble and will not form precipitates.
- Most chloride (Cl-), bromide (Br-), and iodide (I-) salts are soluble, except those of silver (Ag+), lead (Pb2+), and mercury (Hg2+).
- Most sulfate (SO42-) salts are soluble, except those of calcium (Ca2+), strontium (Sr2+), barium (Ba2+), lead (Pb2+), and silver (Ag+).
- Most hydroxide (OH-) salts are insoluble, except those of group 1 cations (Li+, Na+, K+, etc.), ammonium ion (NH4+), and barium (Ba2+).
- Most carbonate (CO32-) and phosphate (PO43-) salts are insoluble, except those of group 1 cations (Li+, Na+, K+, etc.) and ammonium ion (NH4+).
Formation of Complex Ions:
Ammonia (NH3) can form complex ions with some metal cations. These complex ions are soluble and can be separated from other cations.
Analysis:
a) Bi3+ and Al3+: Both cations have a similar charge and do not form complex ions with NH3. Therefore, they cannot be separated using excess NH3 solution.
b) Al3+ and Zn2+: Al3+ can form a complex ion with NH3, [Al(NH3)6]3+. Zn2+ does not form a complex ion with NH3. Therefore, Al3+ can be separated from Zn2+ using excess NH3 solution.
c) Hg2+ and Pb2+: Both cations do not form complex ions with NH3. Therefore, they cannot be separated using excess NH3 solution.
d) Cu2+ and Cd2+: Both cations do not form complex ions with NH3. Therefore, they cannot be separated using excess NH3 solution.
Conclusion:
The pair of cations that can be separated using excess NH3 solution is Al3+ and Zn2+.