Question:

Consider the following equilibrium
\(\mathrm{AgCl}\downarrow + 2\mathrm{NH_3} \rightleftharpoons [\mathrm{Ag(NH_3)_2}]^+ + \mathrm{Cl^-}\)
White precipitate of AgCl appears on adding which of the following?

Show Hint

The precipitate re-forms only if the equilibrium shifts left; HNO3 removes free NH3 by forming NH4+, so the complex breaks down and AgCl returns.
Updated On: Nov 11, 2026
  • \(\mathrm{NH_3}\)
  • aqueous \(\mathrm{NaCl}\)
  • aqueous \(\mathrm{HNO_3}\)
  • aqueous \(\mathrm{NH_4Cl}\)
Show Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

The equilibrium \(\mathrm{AgCl} + 2\mathrm{NH_3} \rightleftharpoons [\mathrm{Ag(NH_3)_2}]^+ + \mathrm{Cl^-}\) must shift to the left for AgCl to reappear from the clear solution.
Adding \(\mathrm{NH_3}\) shifts it right (dissolves AgCl) - not (1).
\(\mathrm{HNO_3}\) reacts with free ammonia: \(\mathrm{NH_3} + \mathrm{H^+} \rightarrow \mathrm{NH_4^+}\). Removal of \(\mathrm{NH_3}\) shifts the equilibrium left, the complex decomposes and white AgCl precipitates.
This is the standard test: acidifying an ammoniacal silver chloride solution with nitric acid reprecipitates AgCl.
Answer: (3) aqueous HNO3
Was this answer helpful?
0
0

Top JEE Main Law Of Chemical Equilibrium And Equilibrium Constant Questions

View More Questions