GCSEChemistryAQARevision Notes8. Chemical Analysis8.3 Methods of Identifying Ions8.3.5 Sulfates

Sulfates (AQA GCSE Chemistry)

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Test for Sulfates

  • Acidify the sample with dilute hydrochloric acid and then add a few drops of aqueous barium chloride
  • If a sulfate is present then a white precipitate of barium sulfate is formed:

Ba2+ (aq) + SO42- (aq) → BaSO4 (s)

  • The test can also be carried out with barium nitrate solution

Sulfate Ion Test, IGCSE & GCSE Chemistry revision notes

A white precipitate of barium sulfate is a positive result for the presence of sulfate ions

Exam Tip

HCl is added first to remove any carbonates which may be present and would also produce a precipitate and  interfere with the results.

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