An equilibrium using copper(II) and ammonia

Three glass boiling tubes containing blue copper sulfate solution, resting in a test tube rack on school laboratory bench

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Try this practical to explore an equilibrium involving copper(II) ions, with copper(II) sulfate, ammonia and sulfuric acid. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

In this experiment, students add ammonia to a solution of copper(II) sulfate, observe the colour changes taking place, and then reverse the reaction by the addition of sulfuric acid. The accompanying teaching notes provide guidance on framing the experiment for use with pre- and post-16 students.

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