Question:medium

Compound that will give positive Lassaigne’s test for both nitrogen and halogen is

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For Lassaigne’s test:
• Organic compounds must contain nitrogen or halogens for detection.
• Both nitrogen and halogen must be part of the same compound to test positive for both.

Updated On: Mar 12, 2026
  • CH3NH2.HCl

  • NH2OH .HCl

  • NH4Cl

  • N2H4 . HCl

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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

The question requires identifying a compound that gives a positive Lassaigne’s test for both nitrogen and halogen. Let's analyze the problem step-by-step:

Understanding Lassaigne's Test

Lassaigne's test is used to detect the presence of elements such as nitrogen, sulfur, and halogens in an organic compound:

  • Nitrogen Detection: The organic compound is fused with sodium to form sodium cyanide (NaCN), which is detected using Prussian blue color formed with iron sulfate.
  • Halogen Detection: After sodium fusion, the mixture is treated with silver nitrate (AgNO3) to form precipitates like AgCl, AgBr, or AgI, which confirm the presence of halogens.

Analysis of Options

  1. CH3NH2.HCl: This compound, methylamine hydrochloride, contains both nitrogen (from NH2) and chlorine, a halogen (from HCl). Therefore, it can potentially give a positive result for both elements in Lassaigne's test.
  2. NH2OH .HCl: This compound, hydroxylamine hydrochloride, contains nitrogen (NH2) and chlorine (HCl). Like methylamine, it too contains the necessary elements.
  3. NH4Cl: This compound, ammonium chloride, contains nitrogen and chlorine, which could theoretically result in positive results for both elements.
  4. N2H4 .HCl: Known as hydrazine hydrochloride, this contains nitrogen and chlorine, similar to the other compounds.

Conclusion

Among the options listed, CH3NH2.HCl (methylamine hydrochloride) indeed has both nitrogen and halogen (chlorine), allowing it to give a positive Lassaigne’s test for both. However, considering typical conditions and understanding of organic compounds, it is the most likely candidate noted for typical educational purposes.

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