Tests for Sulfate using Barium Chloride

Question 1

How would you test for sulfates?

Answer 1

1. Add dilute hydrochloric acid
2. Add barium chloride solution

Question 2

Why should you add hydrochloric acid (HCl) first when testing for sulfates?

Answer 2

To react with carbonate ions that would interfere with precipitate colours.

Question 3

What colour precipitate do sulfate ions (SO₄^2-) form with barium chloride (BaCl₂)?

Answer 3

White