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Transition Elements

Dissolving hydroxides in excess ammonia and distinguishing the ions

  • 2 things to know
  • Components 01 and 03

Overview

Recall questions on which hydroxides dissolve in excess ammonia and which do not, the complexes formed, and using the tests to tell the ions apart.

What you need to know

Answer each one before you reveal it.

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Key term

What complex forms when chromium(III) hydroxide dissolves in excess ammonia, what is the formula of the copper–ammonia complex, and why does the copper solution turn deep blue?

Key term

How could you distinguish between Fe²⁺ and Fe³⁺ ions using aqueous sodium hydroxide?

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

  1. 1

    Which two metal hydroxide precipitates dissolve when excess aqueous ammonia is added?

    Model answer

    Cr(OH)₃ and Cu(OH)₂ dissolve in excess ammonia.

  2. 2

    Do Fe(OH)₂, Fe(OH)₃ and Mn(OH)₂ dissolve in excess aqueous ammonia?

    Model answer

    No, these hydroxide precipitates do not dissolve in excess ammonia.

  3. 3

    What complex ion forms when chromium(III) hydroxide reacts with excess ammonia, and what is its colour?

    Model answer

    The hexaamminechromium(III) ion forms, which is purple in colour.

  4. 4

    Name the amine complex formed when Cr(OH)₃ dissolves in excess NH₃.

    Model answer

    Hexaamminechromium(III) ion.

  5. 5

    What complex forms when copper(II) hydroxide reacts with excess ammonia, and what colour is the resulting solution?

    Model answer

    The tetraamminecopper(II) complex forms, giving a deep blue solution.

  6. 6

    Why does the solution turn deep blue when excess ammonia is added to Cu(OH)₂?

    Model answer

    The Cu(OH)₂ dissolves as ammonia ligands replace water and hydroxide ligands, forming the deep blue tetraamminecopper(II) complex.

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AThe first step is Cl• + O₃ → ClO• + O₂.
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