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In this lab, we will prepare the cobalt(III) complex chloropentammine cobalt(III) chloride.
This requires a redox reaction since we begin with cobalt(II) that is oxidized via hydrogen
peroxide to form the cobalt(III) specie. The final product is:
(2+)
Cl
H3N NH3
Co
H3N NH3 2 Cl
NH3
PROCEDURE
Pipet 1.5 mL of 30% hydrogen peroxide solution (CAUTION! Causes severe chemical
burns) into a small test tube. While continuing to stir, add the hydrogen peroxide with a
dropper, adding 1-2 drops every 15-30 seconds. Wait for the bubbling to subside after all
of the peroxide is added. Obtain 7 mL of conc. hydrochloric acid (CAUTION!). Using a
disposable dropper, add ~1 mL portions while maintaining continuous stirring; wait until
the bumping subsides before adding subsequent portions.
Continue to stir and set the hotplate on a low setting. Using the hotplate, maintain a
temperature of 80-85°C for 30 minutes. Next, allow the mixture to cool to room
temperature. While waiting, cool 15 mL water and 10mL of 95% ethanol in an ice water
bath. Once cooled, filter the product by vacuum filtration. Wash the product on the filter
two times with about 5 mL of ice cold water, then two times with ice cold ethanol, then
three times with acetone.