Precipitation reactions of lead nitrate

A yellow precipitate forming in a clear liquid against a black background

Source: © Shutterstock

Compare the colours of various lead compounds to identify which would be good pigments in this microscale practical. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Many lead compounds are insoluble and some of them are brightly coloured. In this experiment, students observe the colour changes of lead nitrate solutions when different anions are added to identify which compounds would make good pigments.

They then compare what happens when deionised water and tap water are added to lead nitrate solution, giving explanations for what they observe.

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