Discuss the principles and techniques involved ... - SS3 Chemistry Analytical Chemistry I: Qualitative Analysis Question

Qualitative analysis involves identifying the components present in a sample without determining their exact amounts. It relies on observing distinctive properties of substances, such as colour changes, precipitate formation, and characteristic reactions. This process helps identify ions and compounds present in a mixture. Unlike quantitative analysis, which measures the exact quantity of a substance, qualitative analysis focuses on the qualitative properties of substances. For example, identifying the presence of chloride ions by observing the formation of a white precipitate of silver chloride in a solution containing silver nitrate and hydrochloric acid demonstrates qualitative analysis.