Which ion is indicated by a green precipitate formed when sodium hydroxide is added?

Study for the IGCSE Edexcel Chemistry Test. Access flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

Which ion is indicated by a green precipitate formed when sodium hydroxide is added?

Explanation:
The test relies on how metal ions form insoluble hydroxides with added hydroxide ions, and the color tells you which ion is present. Iron(II) ions react with OH− to form iron(II) hydroxide, Fe(OH)2, which appears as a pale green precipitate. If iron were in the +3 oxidation state, you’d get Fe(OH)3, which is brown. Copper(II) would give blue Cu(OH)2, and aluminum(III) would give a white gelatinous Al(OH)3 that dissolves in excess alkali. So a green precipitate from adding sodium hydroxide points to Fe2+ ions.

The test relies on how metal ions form insoluble hydroxides with added hydroxide ions, and the color tells you which ion is present. Iron(II) ions react with OH− to form iron(II) hydroxide, Fe(OH)2, which appears as a pale green precipitate. If iron were in the +3 oxidation state, you’d get Fe(OH)3, which is brown. Copper(II) would give blue Cu(OH)2, and aluminum(III) would give a white gelatinous Al(OH)3 that dissolves in excess alkali. So a green precipitate from adding sodium hydroxide points to Fe2+ ions.

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