Question 25

Why is nitric acid added to sodium extract before adding silver nitrate for testing halogens?

Answer

While testing the Lassaigne's extract for the presence of halogens, it is first boiled with dilute nitric acid. This is done to decompose NaCN to HCN and Na2S to H2S and expel these gases. If any nitrogen and sulphur are present in the form of NaCN and Na2S, then they are removed. The chemical equations involved in the reaction are represented as

NaCN  +   HNO3   →    NaNO3   +   HCN

Na2S  +  2HNO3  →    2NaNO3   + H2S

 

Popular Questions of Class 11 Chemistry

Recently Viewed Questions of Class 11 Chemistry

Write a Comment: