A chemist who studies water samples did a demonstration of how to test for lead in water. She added a clear solution of potassium iodide to a clear solution of lead nitrate. Then a yellow swirling solid formed in the liquid. What is most likely true about the yellow solid?
The swirling yellow solid formed is lead iodide (PbI₂).
Explanation:
The reaction of potassium iodide (KI) with lead nitrate (Pb(NO₃)₂) will produce lead iodide (PbI₂) and potassium nitrate (KNO₃) according to the equation:
2KI + Pb(NO₃)₂ → PbI₂↓ + 2KNO₃
Lead iodide (PbI₂) is a yellow swirling precipitate that is formed from the reaction.
