Both Sulphite () and Carbonate () anions vigorously effervesce with dilute acid, yielding colorless gases that turn lime water milky. Which specific reagent definitively and visually distinguishes a s

Question

Both Sulphite ($SO_3^{2-}$) and Carbonate ($CO_3^{2-}$) anions vigorously effervesce with dilute acid, yielding colorless gases that turn lime water milky. Which specific reagent definitively and visually distinguishes a sulphite from a carbonate?

Prashant Kotian · Accepted Answer

Correct answer: B. Both yield gases ( and ) that precipitate / with lime water. However, only acts as a reducing agent strong enough to turn orange acidified paper green (by reducing to ).

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