Addition of ammonia to metal aqua ions
Addition of ammonia to metal aqua ions
Formula
Cu(OH)₂(s) + 4NH₃(aq) → [Cu(NH₃)₄(H₂O)₂]²⁺(aq) + 2OH⁻(aq)
Real World
Schweizer's reagent — the deep blue [Cu(NH₃)₄]²⁺ complex formed when excess ammonia is added to Cu²⁺ — was historically used to dissolve cellulose in rayon fibre manufacturing.
Exam Focus
Describe the two-step observation: precipitate forms first, then dissolves in excess ammonia — examiners penalise answers that skip the intermediate precipitate.
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