How can sulphide ions be distinguished from sulphite ions?

Explanation

To distinguish between sulfide ions (S²⁻) and sulfite ions (SO₃²⁻), we can perform specific chemical tests based on their reactions with certain reagents. Here’s a step-by-step solution:

### Step 1: Reaction with Silver Nitrate (AgNO₃)
- **Procedure**: Add a few drops of silver nitrate solution (AgNO₃) to separate samples containing sulfide ions and sulfite ions.
- **Observation**:
- **Sulfide ions** will form a **black precipitate** of silver sulfide (Ag₂S).
- **Sulfite ions** will form a **white precipitate** of silver sulfite (Ag₂SO₃).

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