Carbonates (AQA GCSE Chemistry)

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Test for Carbonates

  • Carbonates all contain the carbonate ion, CO32-
  • The test for this ion involves adding dilute acid and testing the gas released
  • If a carbonate compound is present then effervescence should be seen and the gas produced is CO2 which forms a white precipitate of calcium carbonate when bubbled through limewater:

CO32- (aq) + 2H+ (aq) → CO2 (g) + H2O (l)

CO2 (g) + Ca(OH)2 (aq) → CaCO3(s) + H2O(l)

Test for Carbon Dioxide, IGCSE & GCSE Chemistry revision notes

Limewater turns milky in the presence of CO2 caused by formation of insoluble calcium carbonate

Exam Tip

You’ll need to connect the test tube of the suspected ion to the test tube of limewater quickly so none of the CO2 escapes.

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Stewart

Author: Stewart

Stewart has been an enthusiastic GCSE, IGCSE, A Level and IB teacher for more than 30 years in the UK as well as overseas, and has also been an examiner for IB and A Level. As a long-standing Head of Science, Stewart brings a wealth of experience to creating Topic Questions and revision materials for Save My Exams. Stewart specialises in Chemistry, but has also taught Physics and Environmental Systems and Societies.