Answer: To distinguish between NiCl and BaCl, we can use the sodium hydroxide test.
Reagents needed:
Sodium hydroxide solution (NaOH)
NiCl solution
BaCl solution
Test procedure:
Take a small amount of the unknown compound in a test tube.
Add a few drops of NaOH solution to the test tube.
Observe the color of the precipitate formed.
Observations:
If the precipitate is green, it indicates the presence of Ni^2+ ions.
If the precipitate is white, it indicates the presence of Ba^2+ ions.
Ionic equation:
For NiCl: Ni^2+ (aq) + 2OH^- (aq) → Ni(OH)2 (s)
For BaCl: Ba^2+ (aq) + 2OH^- (aq) → Ba(OH)2 (s)
Please note that this test is not specific to NiCl and BaCl, and other compounds may also give similar results. It is always recommended to confirm the results with additional tests.
Step-by-step explanation: