Separating Cations: AgNO3 + NH3?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the separation of individual cations from a mixed solution containing Fe(NO3)2, Cr(NO3)2, Ag(NO3), and Ni(NO3)2. Participants explore methods for achieving this separation, including the use of ammonia (NH3) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH), and discuss the resulting compounds and their states.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes that adding NH3 to the solution will yield Ni(NH3)6(2+), Fe(OH)3, Cr(OH)3, and Ag(NH3)2.
  • Another participant suggests that Ag(NH3)2+ is not a solid and recommends separating Ag+ as chloride instead.
  • A participant questions the initial assumption about the oxidation states of iron and chromium, suggesting a possible error in the chemical formulas provided.
  • There is a discussion about the reaction of Ag(NH3)2+ with NaOH, with one participant asserting that it leads to the formation of Ag2O rather than Ag(OH).
  • Another participant warns that adding OH- to an ammonia solution of silver can produce dangerous compounds, advising caution.
  • A participant expresses a need for guidance on writing equations involving NH3 and AgNO3, indicating a struggle with comprehension of the material.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants exhibit disagreement regarding the correct products of the reactions and the appropriate methods for separating the cations. There is no consensus on the best approach or the accuracy of the proposed reactions.

Contextual Notes

Some participants point out potential errors in the initial chemical assumptions, and there is uncertainty about the states of certain compounds formed during the reactions. The discussion reflects varying levels of understanding and interpretation of the chemical processes involved.

Who May Find This Useful

Students and individuals interested in analytical chemistry, particularly those working on separation techniques and complexation reactions involving cations.

Kitty808
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Ok, lab work...
I have to figure out a way to separate out the individual cations from a solution containing Fe(NO3)2, Cr(NO3)2, Ag(NO3), and Ni(NO3)2 and get each one into a particular form and perform a confirmatory test on it.
I've think I know how to get started on it. First adding some NH3 to the solution I should have Ni(NH3)6(2+) (aq), Fe(OH)3(s), Cr(OH)3(s), and Ag(NH3)2(s). Centrifuging out the solid should leave the Ni(NH3)6(2+) which I can run the confirmatory test on.

This is where I get a little stuck. I think by adding NaOH to the solids I should get Fe(OH)3(s), Cr(OH)4(-1)(aq), and Ag(OH)(aq)? I'm not sure about the Ag(OH) if that is correct and whether it is aq or s.

If I did my reaction right its:
Ag(NH3)2(+) + NaOH --> Ag(OH) + Na(NH3)?

If I could get some input as to whether I'm on the right track or not it would be appreciated very much.
 
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I would separate Ag+ as chloride. Ag(NH3)2+ is not a solid.

But it seems like you are contradicting yourself in your post.
 
Kitty808 said:
Ok, lab work...
I have to figure out a way to separate out the individual cations from a solution containing Fe(NO3)2, Cr(NO3)2
Maybe you intended [tex]Fe(NO_3)_3,\ Cr(NO_3)_3?[/tex] Otherwise they can't then give [tex]Fe(OH)_3,\ Cr(OH)_3[/tex] as you write after
, Ag(NO3), and Ni(NO3)2 and get each one into a particular form and perform a confirmatory test on it.
I've think I know how to get started on it. First adding some NH3 to the solution I should have Ni(NH3)6(2+) (aq), Fe(OH)3(s), Cr(OH)3(s), and Ag(NH3)2(s). Centrifuging out the solid should leave the Ni(NH3)6(2+) which I can run the confirmatory test on.
And [tex]Ag(NH_3)_2^+[/tex], as Borek wrote.
This is where I get a little stuck. I think by adding NaOH to the solids I should get Fe(OH)3(s), Cr(OH)4(-1)(aq), and Ag(OH)(aq)? I'm not sure about the Ag(OH) if that is correct and whether it is aq or s.

If I did my reaction right its:
Ag(NH3)2(+) + NaOH --> Ag(OH) + Na(NH3)?
No.

[tex]2Ag(NH_3)_2^+\ +\ 2NaOH\ \rightarrow\ Ag_2O\ +\ 2Na^+\ +\ 4NH_3\ +\ H_2O[/tex]

(Initially it forms AgOH, which quickly decomposes into the oxide).

Anyway, adding OH- to an ammonia solution of silver can produce dangerous compounds, so it's not advisable.
 
Last edited:
Borek,

First off I am into learning on my own, but I am stuck here and could use a little help.

I am working on equation writing, I have NH3(aq) + AgNO3. I have hit the Raymond Chang, Ninth edition for explanation on solving this, but I might be in the wrong section for comprehension. Could you guide me in the direction of information that could help me solve this, Thanks.
 
Go net ionic. Ag+ is getting complexed by two ammonia molecules.

Please don't necropost, rather start a new thread.
 
Will do, thanks.
 

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