Anion tests

• Sulphate ions


  • barium chloride
  • forms a white ppt
• Hydroxide ions


  • red litmus paper that can turn blue
  • universal indicator that turns blue purple
• Carbonate ions


  • HCl added to the solution
  • if effervescence is seen and carbon dioxide is given off, it contains carbonate ions
  • can be tested with limewater which turns cloudy with carbon dioxide