demonstrations:solid_lead_nitrate_and_potassium_iodide
Solid Lead Nitrate and Potassium Iodide
Materials: ★★☆ Available in most school laboratories or specialist stores
Difficulty: ★☆☆ Can be easily done by most teenagers
Safety: ★★☆ Some safety precautions required to perform safely
Categories: Chemical Reactions, Colour Changes, Compounds
Alternative titles: Making Solid Lead Iodide
Summary
When lead nitrate and potassium iodide powders are combined and shaken, they undergo a double displacement reaction to produce yellow lead iodide.
Procedure
- Place small amounts of powdered lead nitrate and potassium iodide together in a dry container.
- Shake the solids forcefully — the reaction produces a mixture of white and yellow products.
Links
Rates of Yellow (Lead Nitrate + Potassium Iodide) - Jmu ChemDemos:
Variations
- Compare the speed of precipitation when using solid reactants versus aqueous solutions.
Safety Precautions
- Lead salts are toxic — avoid ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact.
- Always wear gloves, safety goggles, and a lab coat.
- Do not dispose of lead compounds down the drain; collect as hazardous waste.
Questions to Consider
- What type of chemical reaction is this? (Double displacement/precipitation reaction.)