The Student Room Group

Problem Solving Question

Iodide ions are oxidised by acidified nitrite
ions according to the equation

2NO2– + 2I– + 4H+ 2NO + I2 + 2H2O

Addition of sodium ethanoate to the reaction
mixture slows down the formation of iodine.

The most likely explanation for this effect is
that ethanoate ions

A remove iodine
B reduce the concentration of iodide ions
C react with nitrite ions
D react with hydrogen ions.

I thought it was A but for some reason it is wrong, can someone help me please?
Reply 1
Original post by flyingpanda786
Iodide ions are oxidised by acidified nitrite
ions according to the equation

2NO2– + 2I– + 4H+ 2NO + I2 + 2H2O

Addition of sodium ethanoate to the reaction
mixture slows down the formation of iodine.

The most likely explanation for this effect is
that ethanoate ions

A remove iodine
B reduce the concentration of iodide ions
C react with nitrite ions
D react with hydrogen ions.

I thought it was A but for some reason it is wrong, can someone help me please?



Sodium ethanoate is a basic salt so its going to react with the hydrogen ions removing the hydrogen ions from the reaction causing less iodine to be made!
Original post by Cobalt_
Sodium ethanoate is a basic salt so its going to react with the hydrogen ions removing the hydrogen ions from the reaction causing less iodine to be made!


Ahhh, i get it now. Your explanation was really good, thank you for your time! :smile:
Reply 3
Original post by flyingpanda786
Ahhh, i get it now. Your explanation was really good, thank you for your time! :smile:


Not a problem c:

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