Zn + HNO3 (conc.) -> Zn(NO3)2 + NO2 + H2O — Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

Step 1: The reaction of bismuth(III) ions with iodide ions (I-) initially forms a dark brown/black precipitate of bismuth(III) iodide (BiI3). Step 2: The black BiI3 precipitate reacts with excess iodide ions to form a highly stable, soluble tetraiodobismuthate(III) complex anion: BiI3 + I- -> [BiI4]-. Step 3: The [BiI4]- complex solution exhibits a characteristic orange/yellow-orange color. This confirms the presence of Bi3+, matching option (b).