Solution
Core Logic
This pathway corresponds to the standard confirmatory test for cobalt (Co²⁺) ions in qualitative inorganic analysis:
- CoS dissolves in aqua regia to yield cobalt chloride (CoCl₂):
- Treating this solution with potassium nitrite (KNO₂) in the presence of acetic acid (AcOH) oxidizes Co²⁺ to Co³⁺, precipitating potassium cobaltinitrite as a characteristic yellow solid:
Pattern Recognition
A yellow precipitate formed specifically upon adding KNO₂ and acetic acid is a definitive signature of potassium cobaltinitrite, K₃[Co(NO₂)₆]. This confirms the starting sulfide was CoS.
Chapter Mix
Class 12 Chemistry: Coordination Compounds Class 11 Chemistry: Qualitative Analysis