Qualititive Inorganic Analysis Using the Flame Test.

Authors Avatar by zeynep_merve10hotmailcouk (student)
  1. State what ‘qualitative inorganic analysis’ means.

This technique used in analytical chemistry aims to identify the elemental composition of inorganic compounds. Its focus is mainly on the detection of ions in an aqueous solution. Even when substances are in other forms, they are brought into the aqueous state if necessary, before the use of these standard methods. The aqueous solution is mixed with different reagents in order to test for reactions that are characteristic of certain ions. These reactions may cause solid formation, change in colour and other visual changes.

  1. Identify and explain the errors for your analysis.

Nickel wire contamination: The nickel wire which is used in introducing the chemical with the blue flame given out of the Bunsen burner could get contaminated if it is not changed constantly through the stages of different chemicals being used. The chemical that was being used in the first flame test could stick on the wire and when it is used with another chemical it will give the wrong inference. Other factors that could affect the contamination might be dirt particles on the surface that could stick on the wire if it is left on an unclean surface.

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Misreading Inferences:  There are many misreading’s of inferences that could be done overall. The appearance of the chemical could change in colour over time; this will directly lead onto misreading the inference. During the precipitation tests, both for identifying cations and anions, incorrect observation of the coloured precipitation could occur; or effervescence may not be noticed during the anion test for carbonate and sulphate.

  1. Identify and explain improvements on the analysis.

Nickel wire contamination could be reduced by dipping it into dilute hydrochloric acid and holding it in a hot Bunsen flame. This process should be ...

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