Question
Chemistry Question on biological importance of sodium and potassium
During halogen test, sodium fusion extract is boiled with concentrated HNO3 to
A
remove unreacted sodium
B
decompose cyanide or sulphide of sodium
C
extract halogen from organic compound
D
maintain the pH of extract.
Answer
remove unreacted sodium
Explanation
Solution
The correct option is(B): decompose cyanide or sulphide of sodium.
During test for halogen, if nitrogen or sulphur is also present in the compound, then sodium fusion extract is first boiled with concentrated nitric acid to decompose cyanide or sulphide of sodium formed during Lassaigne’s test.