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2025 O Level Chem P1 Q21 — Qualitative Analysis (Cation Tests) Solution

Qualitative Analysis (Cation Tests) 2025 O Level Pure Chemistry · Paper 1 · Q21

Question

An aqueous solution of compound X forms a green precipitate when a few drops of aqueous sodium hydroxide are added. When solid compound X is heated strongly, it decomposes to release a gas which decolourises acidified potassium manganate(VII). What is compound X?
  1. AFeSO₄
  2. BFe₂(SO₄)₃
  3. CFe(NO₃)₂
  4. DFe(NO₃)₃
Correct answer: A

Video Solution

Explanation

Answer: A. Two tests narrow the identity:

1) Aqueous NaOH gives a green precipitate. This is the diagnostic test for \(\text{Fe}^{2+}\) — it forms a dirty-green \(\text{Fe(OH)}_2\) precipitate. \(\text{Fe}^{3+}\) would give a red-brown precipitate instead, eliminating B and D.

2) Heating the solid releases a gas which decolourises acidified KMnO₄ — i.e., a reducing gas. Sulfate decomposition gives \(\text{SO}_2\), which is a reducing agent. Nitrate decomposition gives \(\text{NO}_2\) and \(\text{O}_2\), neither of which decolourises KMnO₄ in the same way (KMnO₄ is already oxidising). This eliminates C.

Both tests point to \(\text{FeSO}_4\) → A.

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