The Qualitative Analysis of Ions – Case Studies section applies theoretical knowledge to realistic laboratory and real-world scenarios involving the identification of unknown inorganic ions . This module is designed for Class 11–12 students, undergraduate learners, and competitive exam aspirants , focusing on logical reasoning, observation analysis, and decision-making skills .
In this section, you will analyze:
Unknown salt identification using systematic cation and anion analysis
Mixed salt case studies – handling multiple ions and overlapping reactions
Interfering ion scenarios and strategies to eliminate false positives
Unexpected observations – absence of precipitate, color changes, or anomalous results
Step-wise reasoning from preliminary tests to confirmatory reactions
Error analysis – incorrect reagent use, pH imbalance, and procedural mistakes
Comparison of possible ions based on observed results
Exam-style practical case questions with guided reasoning
NCERT- and UG-aligned explanations , supported by reaction equations, observation tables, flowcharts, MCQs, and PYQs
The content is structured to simulate practical examinations , improve analytical thinking , and train students to interpret results confidently under exam conditions .
Develop strong problem-solving and diagnostic skills in Qualitative Analysis of Ions by mastering case-based chemical reasoning .
Q. In a flame test, which color indicates the presence of sodium ions?
A.
Green
B.
Red
C.
Yellow
D.
Blue
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Solution
Sodium ions produce a characteristic bright yellow color when subjected to a flame test.
Correct Answer:
C
— Yellow
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Q. In qualitative analysis, what does a positive result in a precipitation test indicate?
A.
The absence of ions
B.
The presence of specific ions
C.
The need for further testing
D.
The presence of impurities
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Solution
A positive result in a precipitation test indicates that specific ions are present in the solution, forming an insoluble compound.
Correct Answer:
B
— The presence of specific ions
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Q. What is the main advantage of using chromatography for qualitative analysis?
A.
It provides quantitative results
B.
It can separate complex mixtures
C.
It requires minimal sample preparation
D.
It is the fastest method available
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Solution
Chromatography excels in separating complex mixtures, allowing for the identification of individual components within a sample.
Correct Answer:
B
— It can separate complex mixtures
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Q. What is the main advantage of using modern analytical instrumentation in qualitative ion analysis?
A.
Lower cost
B.
Higher sensitivity and specificity
C.
Simpler procedures
D.
Faster results
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Solution
Modern analytical instrumentation offers higher sensitivity and specificity, allowing for more accurate identification of ions in complex mixtures.
Correct Answer:
B
— Higher sensitivity and specificity
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Q. What is the primary purpose of qualitative analysis in ion detection?
A.
To determine the concentration of ions
B.
To identify the presence of specific ions
C.
To separate ions from a mixture
D.
To quantify the total ion content
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Solution
Qualitative analysis focuses on identifying the presence of specific ions in a sample rather than quantifying their concentrations.
Correct Answer:
B
— To identify the presence of specific ions
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Q. What is the role of a pH indicator in a titration for qualitative analysis?
A.
To measure the temperature of the solution
B.
To indicate the endpoint of the titration
C.
To separate ions in the solution
D.
To enhance the color of the solution
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Solution
A pH indicator changes color at a specific pH level, signaling the endpoint of the titration, which helps in identifying the presence of certain ions.
Correct Answer:
B
— To indicate the endpoint of the titration
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Q. What is the significance of using a control sample in qualitative ion analysis?
A.
To increase the sample size
B.
To ensure the accuracy of measurements
C.
To provide a reference for comparison
D.
To reduce the time of analysis
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Solution
A control sample serves as a reference for comparison, helping to confirm the presence or absence of specific ions in the test sample.
Correct Answer:
C
— To provide a reference for comparison
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Q. Which ion is typically detected using a silver nitrate test?
A.
Chloride
B.
Sulfate
C.
Nitrate
D.
Phosphate
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Solution
The silver nitrate test is commonly used to detect chloride ions, which form a white precipitate of silver chloride.
Correct Answer:
A
— Chloride
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Q. Which of the following methods can be used to identify cations in a solution?
A.
Thin Layer Chromatography
B.
Electrophoresis
C.
Flame Photometry
D.
All of the above
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Solution
All of the listed methods can be employed to identify cations in a solution through various analytical techniques.
Correct Answer:
D
— All of the above
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Q. Which qualitative analysis technique uses a gel medium to separate ions based on their charge?
A.
Gas Chromatography
B.
Capillary Electrophoresis
C.
High-Performance Liquid Chromatography
D.
Mass Spectrometry
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Solution
Capillary Electrophoresis separates ions based on their charge and size using a gel medium, making it suitable for qualitative analysis.
Correct Answer:
B
— Capillary Electrophoresis
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Q. Which spectroscopy technique is best suited for identifying functional groups in organic compounds?
A.
Infrared Spectroscopy
B.
Nuclear Magnetic Resonance
C.
Mass Spectrometry
D.
Raman Spectroscopy
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Solution
Infrared Spectroscopy is particularly effective for identifying functional groups based on their characteristic absorption of infrared light.
Correct Answer:
A
— Infrared Spectroscopy
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Q. Which spectroscopy technique is best suited for identifying functional groups in organic ions?
A.
Infrared Spectroscopy
B.
Ultraviolet-Visible Spectroscopy
C.
Nuclear Magnetic Resonance
D.
Raman Spectroscopy
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Solution
Infrared Spectroscopy is particularly effective for identifying functional groups in organic compounds by measuring molecular vibrations.
Correct Answer:
A
— Infrared Spectroscopy
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