What is meant by the term amphoteric? and give an example of a reaction using NaOH that could be used to distinguish between a solution of amphoteric AlCl3 and non-amphoteric MgCl2.

The phrase amphoteric describes a compound that reacts with both acids and bases. 

NaOH can react with both AlCl3 and MgClto give a white precipitate but the addition of excess NaOH causes the amphoteric Al(OH)3 to dissove, whereas the magnesium precipitate does not dissolve with excess NaOH.

Al3+(aq) + 3OH-(aq) -> Al(OH)3(s)

Al(OH)3(s) + OH-(aq) -> [Al(OH)4]- (aq)

LL
Answered by Lois L. Chemistry tutor

13812 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

How can you determine the shape of water?


Explain the structure and characteristics of benzene


How do you decide what the sign of the enthalpy change should be?


A 1000 cm3 container of ammonia (NH3) has a mass of 20.7g, it is stored at room temperature (298 K). When empty the container has a mass of 20.0 g, calculate the pressure inside the container in kPa to an appropriate number of significant figures.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning