155k views
4 votes
Bob has the salt solutions in the list below. He does not know which is which. magnesium chloride zinc chloride copper chloride Bob also has pieces of magnesium, iron, zinc, and copper. Explain how Bob could use his materials to work out which solution is which.​

User Tyl
by
7.4k points

1 Answer

2 votes
Bob can use a process called precipitation to determine which solution is which. He can start by adding a small amount of each metal to each of the salt solutions, and then observe which combination produces a solid precipitate.

For example, if Bob adds magnesium to one of the solutions and a solid precipitate forms, he can conclude that the solution contains magnesium chloride. He can repeat this process with the other metals until he has identified all three solutions.

It is important to note that Bob should only add a small amount of metal to each solution, as adding too much can cause the reaction to become violent or produce dangerous gases. Additionally, Bob should wear appropriate safety equipment, such as gloves and goggles, when conducting this experiment.
User Elliott Beach
by
7.1k points