Question

Silver nitrate reagent is used for limit test in Indian Pharmacopoeia for

• A. Lead
• B. Iron
• C. Chloride
• D. Mercury

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The question asks which element or compound is tested using the silver nitrate reagent, as described in the Indian Pharmacopoeia. Let's analyze the options and determine the correct answer:

• Silver Nitrate Test for Chloride: Silver nitrate is commonly used to test for the presence of chloride ions. When silver nitrate is added to a solution containing chloride ions, a white precipitate of silver chloride forms. This reaction is pivotal in the qualitative analysis of chloride because of its distinct visual indication.
• Alternative Reagents for Other Substances:
  • Lead: For lead, tests such as the lead acetate test are employed to detect its presence.
  • Iron: Iron is typically tested using reagents like potassium thiocyanate, which forms a blood-red complex with iron(III) ions.
  • Mercury: Mercury detection often involves reactions with specific reagents that form a mercuric complex, but not typically silver nitrate.

Conclusion: Silver nitrate is specifically used for testing chloride ions due to the simple and visible formation of a white precipitate of silver chloride. Thus, chloride is the correct answer. Other substances listed do not typically use silver nitrate for testing as per standard protocols in the Indian Pharmacopoeia.

Correct Answer: Chloride