Identifying non-metal ions

• describe the test for carbonate anions

  • add dilute acid e.g. HCl
  • fizzing observed as CO2 released
• describe sulfate tests


  • add a solution containing Ba2+ cations
  • white precipitate of BaSO4 forms
• describe silver nitrate tests

  • add a solution of AgNO3 (acidified with HNO3)
  • chlorines - white precipitate, silver chloride
  • bromides - cream precipitate, silver bromide
  • iodides - yellow precipitate, silver iodide
• what are cations and anions?

  • c - positive ions
  • a - negative ions