Sulfate and carbonate solubility of Groups 1 and 2

A section of the Periodic Table with the tiles for elements in Group 1 and 2 visible in red and orange respectively

Source: © Shutterstock

Try this microscale practical to explore the properties of elements in Groups 1 and 2 as they form various precipitates. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

In this experiment, students add drops of sullfate and carbonate solutions to Group 1 or 2 metal ions and see whether any precipitates form. They observe that no precipitates form in Group 1, indicating that Group 1 carbonates and sulfates are soluble, while the behaviour of Group 2 is more variable.

Make your lessons pop

Choose an account option to continue exploring our full range of articles and teaching resources

Free

Free access for everyone, everywhere. If you only need a few resources, start here.


What's included

  • One free teaching resource each month
  • Five free Education in Chemistry articles each month
  • Personalised email alerts and bookmarks