The Fajans method, also known as the adsorption indicator method, is a classical technique that scientists use to determine chloride (Cl⁻) and bromide (Br⁻) ions in a solution. This method is based on the adsorption of an indicator ion onto the surface of the precipitate, leading to a visible color change at the endpoint of the titration. The Fajan method is particularly useful for determining halide ions in the presence of interfering ions.

Key Components and Steps of Fajans Method:

1. Preparation of the Sample:

Prepare the sample that contains the halide ions and remove or control impurities or interfering substances.

2. Titrant Solution:

Use a standardized silver nitrate (AgNO3) solution as the titrant. This solution contains Ag⁺ ions.

3. Indicator:

The indicator used in Fajan’s method is typically an adsorption indicator, such as dichlorofluorescein (DCF). DCF is an organic compound that adsorbs onto the surface of the silver halide precipitate and imparts a visible color change to the precipitate.

4. Titration Procedure:

Take a small volume of the sample solution in a flask or beaker.

Add a few drops of the indicator solution (DCF) to the sample, with the indicator adsorbing onto the surface of the precipitate.

Initiate the titration by introducing the standardized silver nitrate (AgNO3) into the sample solution, resulting in the formation of a white precipitate of the respective silver halide (AgX, where X = Cl or Br) as the silver ions react with halide ions in the sample. The reaction is represented as Ag⁺ + X⁻ → AgX↓.

As the titration progresses, the silver ions continue to react with the halide ions until they precipitate all the halide ions as AgX.

The endpoint is reached when the adsorbed dichlorofluorescein (DCF) causes a visible color change in the precipitate. This color change signifies that all the halide ions have reacted with the silver ions.

Record the volume of the titrant solution required to achieve the endpoint.

Calculations:

The calculation of halide ion concentration is based on the stoichiometry of the reaction and the adsorption of the indicator onto the surface of the precipitate. The amount of AgNO3 added (in moles) equals the number of halide ions in the sample. From this, the concentration of halide ions can be determined.

Advantages and Considerations:

The Fajans method offers a sensitive technique for determining halide ion concentration, particularly when there are interfering ions present.

The choice of a suitable adsorption indicator is crucial for the success of the titration.

Handling reagents, including the indicator, is essential to preventing contamination.