Unilorin Post-UTME Chemistry 2022 (Model questions) Question 2

Question 2

Qualitative Analysis

When a few drops of barium chloride is added to an unknown sample acidified with hydrochloric acid, a white precipitate insoluble in excess of the acid was obtained. The likely anion in the sample is

A.SO₄²⁻
B.Cl⁻
C.S²⁻
D.CO₃²⁻

Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A (SO₄²⁻)

Explanation

Barium sulphate is a white precipitate that does not dissolve in acid. Barium carbonate or sulphite would dissolve, giving off a gas.