SUBJECT: CHEMISTRY(043)

PROJECT FILE

TOPIC: Analysis Of Cation And Anion

In Sewage Water

Session: 2025-26

NAME: TEACHER INCHAREGE

Kunwar Prasoon Singh Shobhit Rawat
Roll Number:
CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that the content of this project :

Analysis Of Cation And Anion In Sewage Water
by Kunwar Prasoon Singh
is the original work of him submitted to The Chintels
School Kalyanpur Kanpur, for consideration in the
partial accomplishment of the provision of CBSE for
the subject Chemistry. The original research work was
carried out by him in the academic session
2025-2026.
On the basis of this declaration, thereby recommend
the project report for evaluation.

Signatures of Teacher In charge Signatures of Principal

 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I want to convey my heartfelt gratitude to my teacher

Mr. Shobhit Rawat for his support and encouragement during the
research and making of this project. Their expertise in the
subject matter greatly contributed to the depth and quality of
the project. Also, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to
our Principal, Ms Smita Dhawan , for her unwavering support and
encouragement throughout this project. I am grateful for the
opportunity to have worked on this project under her guidance,
and I am confident that my learning and personal growth have
been enriched as a result. I would also like to thank my friends,
for their feedback and support. Their input was invaluable in
helping me to develop and refine my ideas. Lastly, my family’s
support and encouragement were essential throughout the
completion of this project.
INDEX
1. Introduction
2. Theory of Sewage Water Analysis
3. Ion Chromatography
4. Principle of Qualitative Analysis
5. Sample Collection and Preparation
6. Tests for Anions
7. Tests for Cations
8. pH Analysis
9. Precautions
10. Sources of Error
11. Environmental Significance
12. Conclusion
13. Bibliography
INTRODUCTION
Water is an essential natural resource required for
domestic, agricultural, and industrial purposes. With rapid
urbanization and population growth, large quantities of
wastewater are generated daily from households,
industries, hospitals, and commercial establishments. This
wastewater, commonly known as sewage water, contains a
complex mixture of organic matter, inorganic salts,
detergents, oils, and pathogenic microorganisms.
If sewage water is discharged into rivers, lakes, or
groundwater without proper treatment, it leads to severe
water pollution. Such pollution adversely affects aquatic
life, disrupts ecosystems, and poses serious health risks to
humans. Therefore, chemical analysis of sewage water is
necessary to understand its composition and level of
contamination.
Qualitative analysis helps in identifying the various
dissolved ions present in sewage water. By studying these
ions, one can assess the extent of pollution and the
necessity of water treatment before reuse or discharge.
 THEORY OF SEWAGE WATER ANALYSIS
Sewage water consists of both suspended and dissolved impurities.
Suspended impurities include solid particles such as sand, soil, and
organic debris, while dissolved impurities mainly consist of inorganic
salts and organic compounds.
These inorganic salts dissociate in water to form positively charged
ions called cations and negatively charged ions called anions.A cation
has more protons than electrons, consequently giving it a net positive
charge. For a cation to form, one or more electrons must be lost,
typically pulled away by atoms with a stronger affinity for them. The
number of electrons lost, and so the charge of the ion, is indicated
after the chemical symbol, e.g. silver (Ag) loses one electron to
become Ag+, whilst zinc (Zn) loses two electrons to become
Zn2+.Common cations found in sewage water include ammonium,
calcium, magnesium, sodium, and iron ions. These ions originate from
domestic waste, human excreta, detergents, and industrial effluents.
An anion has more electrons than protons, consequently giving it a net
negative charge. For an anion to form, one or more electrons must be
gained, typically pulled away from other atoms with a weaker affinity
for them. The number of electrons gained, and so the charge of the ion,
is indicated after the chemical symbol, e.g. chlorine (Cl) gains one
electron to become Cl-, whilst oxygen (O) gains two electrons to
become [Link] such as chloride, sulphate, nitrate, phosphate, and
carbonate are introduced through fertilizers, cleaning agents, and
biological decomposition of organic matter.
 ION CROMATOGRAPHY

Wastewater analysis is an important area in analytical and

environmental chemistry. It can be performed with both the
classic wet methods and instrumental techniques.
The development of new methods, and modification of the
existing ones, constitute a major task for researchers.
Ion chromatography plays a predominant role in ion
determinations with the instrumental methods. It offers several
advantages over the conventional methods, such as
simultaneous determinations of alkali and alkaline earth cations
and ammonia.
Ammonium ions cannot be determined by spectroscopic
methods. Ion chromatography has been accepted world-wide as
a reference method for analysing anions and cations in water
and wastewater due to the fact that it enables the replacement
of several individual wet chemistry methods for common ions
with one instrumental technique. Moreover, the applications of
ion chromatography in wastewater analyses and international
standards are presented.
PRINCIPLE OF QUALITATIVE ANALYSIS

Qualitative analysis is based on the principle that different ions

exhibit specific and distinguishable reactions with certain
chemical reagents. These reactions occur due to differences in
solubility, formation of insoluble precipitates, evolution of gases,
or production of colored compounds.
In systematic qualitative analysis, ions are identified step by step
to avoid interference. Preliminary tests provide an initial idea
about the ions present, while confirmatory tests conclusively
establish their presence. Flame tests are used to identify certain
metal ions based of the characteristic color imparted to the
flame.
Careful observation of changes such as color, precipitate
formation, and gas evolution is essential. Accuracy in adding
reagents and maintaining experimental conditions ensures
reliable identification of ions in the sewage water sample.
The presence and concentration of these ions determine the
chemical nature, hardness, and pollution level of sewage water.
Qualitative analysis provides a systematic approach to identify
these ions using characteristic chemical reactions.
 SAMPLE COLLECTION AND PREPARATION

Sample collection is a fundamental step in qualitative chemical

analysis because the accuracy of experimental results depends
largely on the quality of the sample used. An improperly
collected or contaminated sample may lead to false observations
and incorrect identification of ions. Therefore, utmost care was
taken during the collection and preparation of the sewage water
sample used in this project.
The sewage water sample is to be collected from a nearby
drainage outlet carrying domestic wastewater. A clean, dry, and
chemically inert plastic container was used for collection. Before
collecting the final sample, the container should be rinsed two to
three times with the same sewage water to eliminate any traces
of foreign substances that might interfere with the analysis. The
sample should be collected from a flowing portion of the drain
rather than stagnant water so that it would be representative of
the actual sewage composition.
Immediately after collection, the sample appeared turbid due to
the presence of suspended impurities such as soil particles,
organic matter, and solid waste. Since qualitative analysis is
concerned mainly with dissolved inorganic ions, these suspended
impurities were removed by filtration. The sample must be
passed through a clean filter paper placed in a funnel, and the
clear filtrate was collected in a beaker.
TESTS FOR ANIONS
Anions are negatively charged ions formed by the dissociation of
inorganic salts present in sewage water. These ions originate
from domestic waste, detergents, fertilizers, and biological
decomposition of organic matter. The identification of anions is
important as many of them act as indicators of water pollution
and environmental degradation.
Carbonate Ion (CO₃²⁻)
Carbonate ions are commonly present in sewage water due to
the decomposition of organic matter and the presence of
washing agents. Carbonates react with dilute acids to release
carbon dioxide gas. This reaction is used as a preliminary test
for carbonate ions. The evolution of a colorless gas producing
effervescence confirms their presence.
Chloride Ion (Cl⁻)
Chloride ions enter sewage water mainly through household
salts, detergents, and human excreta. Chloride ions react with
silver nitrate solution to form a white curdy precipitate of silver
chloride, which is insoluble in dilute nitric acid. This reaction
serves as a confirmatory test for chloride ions.
Sulphate Ion (SO₄²⁻)
Sulphate ions are introduced into sewage water through
industrial waste and cleaning agents. Sulphate ions form an
insoluble white precipitate of barium sulphate when treated with
barium chloride solution in the presence of dilute hydrochloric
acid. The insolubility of this precipitate confirms the presence of
sulphate ions.

Nitrate Ion (NO₃⁻)

Nitrate ions are commonly found in sewage water due to
agricultural runoff and decomposition of nitrogenous organic
matter. The brown ring test is used to detect nitrate ions.
Formation of a brown ring at the junction of two liquids indicates
the presence of nitrate ions.

Phosphate Ion (PO₄³⁻)

Phosphate ions enter sewage water mainly from detergents and
fertilizers. These ions are detected by the formation of a yellow
precipitate with ammonium molybdate reagent in acidic medium.
Presence of phosphate ions is significant as they contribute to
eutrophication in water bodies.
 TESTS FOR CATION
Cations are positively charged ions present in sewage water as
a result of dissolved inorganic salts. These ions affect the
hardness, alkalinity, and overall chemical nature of water.
Identification of cations is carried out using characteristic
reactions such as precipitate formation, color change, and flame
tests.
Ammonium Ion (NH₄⁺)
Ammonium ions are produced due to the decomposition of
nitrogen-containing organic waste. Nessler’s reagent reacts
with ammonium ions to produce a brown coloration or
precipitate, which confirms their presence.
Calcium Ion (Ca²⁺)
Calcium ions are commonly present in sewage water due to
detergents and soil leaching. Calcium ions impart hardness to
water. They produce a brick-red color in the flame test and form
a white precipitate with ammonium oxalate solution.
Iron Ion (Fe²⁺)
Iron ions may enter sewage water from corroded pipelines and
industrial discharge. Ferrous ions react with sodium hydroxide
to form a green precipitate of ferrous hydroxide, which confirms
their presence.
 pH ANALYSIS OF SEWAGE WATER
AIM

To determine the pH value and chemical nature of the given sewage water
sample.
Principle

H determination is based on the ability of an indicator to change color

depending on the hydrogen ion concentration of the solution. pH paper contains
a mixture of indicators that show different colors at different pH values. By
comparing the color obtained with the standard pH color chart, the
appproximate pH of the solution can be determined.
Procedure

Take a small quantity of the filtered sewage water sample in a clean

test [Link] a strip of pH paper into the sample using a clean glass
[Link] the pH paper immediately to avoid excessive
[Link] the color change on the pH [Link] the color
obtained with the standard pH color chart provided with the pH paper
Observation

The pH paper showed a light green coloration, corresponding

to a pH value between 7 and 8.
Inference

Since the pH value is slightly greater than 7, the sewage water

sample is slightly basic in nature. This basicity may be attributed to
the presence of dissolved carbonates,bicarbonates, ammonium
compounds, and alkaline detergents in sewage water.
 Precautions

1. Use Clean Apparatus: All test tubes, beakers, and other glassware must
be thoroughly cleaned and rinsed before use. Residual chemicals from
previous experiments can cause contamination and false observations.
2. Proper Sample Collection: Sewage water should be collected from
flowing parts of the drain and stored in clean, dry, and inert containers.
Containers should be rinsed with the same sample to prevent external
contamination.
3. Filtration of Sample: Filter the sample carefully to remove suspended
solids, which can interfere with chemical reactions and lead to
inaccurate results.
4. Addition of Reagents: Reagents should be added drop by drop as per
standard procedures. Excess reagent can mask true reactions or
produce false precipitates.
5. Avoid Direct Contact: Do not touch chemicals, pH paper, or reagents
with bare hands. Wear gloves and safety goggles to prevent skin or eye
irritation.
6. Accurate Observation: Observe changes carefully and promptly. Some
reactions, such as gas evolution or color changes, may occur quickly and
fade if not recorded immediately.
7. Flame Test Safety: Keep hair and loose clothing away from the Bunsen
burner. Ensure no flammable substances are nearby while performing
flame tests.
8. Proper Disposal: All waste solutions must be disposed of according to
safety norms to prevent environmental contamination. Do not pour
untreated chemicals into drains.
9. Storage of Sample: If analysis cannot be performed immediately, store
filtered samples in a covered container to prevent loss of gases like
ammonia or absorption of CO₂ from the air.
Sources of Error

1. Contaminated Sample:
Presence of foreign substances in the sewage water sample can
lead to false identification of ions.
2. Excess Reagent:
Adding too much reagent can lead to secondary reactions or
formation of unwanted precipitates, causing misinterpretation of
results.
3. Incomplete Filtration:
If suspended solids are not fully removed, they may interfere with
the formation of precipitates or color changes in tests.
4. Human Error in Observation:
Misreading the color change, mistaking a precipitate for another
reaction, or missing a faint gas evolution can cause errors.
5. Timing of Reactions:
Some reactions, such as the brown ring test for nitrate, are
time-sensitive. Delays in observation may produce negative
results even if the ion is present.
6. Loss of Volatile Components:
Gases like ammonia or CO₂ may escape if the sample is left
uncovered or standing for too long, affecting the test results.
7. Impure Reagents:
Using impure or expired chemicals can produce inaccurate
results and interfere with expected reactions.
8. Environmental Factors:
Temperature and light can affect certain reactions, especially
colorimetric observations. Reactions should ideally be performed
at room temperature with consistent lighting.
 Environmental Significance of Sewage Water Analysis
Sewage water contains a variety of dissolved ions and pollutants that can have a serious
impact on the environment if discharged untreated into natural water bodies. Among
these, nitrate and phosphate ions are particularly important because they act as
nutrients for aquatic plants and algae. When present in excess, these ions cause
eutrophication, a process in which algae multiply rapidly, forming thick layers on the
water surface. This algal bloom reduces the penetration of sunlight, disrupting
photosynthesis for submerged plants and decreasing oxygen levels in the water, which
ultimately leads to the death of fish and other aquatic organisms.

Another significant ion commonly present in sewage water is ammonium (NH₄⁺), which
originates from organic waste and human excreta. High levels of ammonium contribute
to foul odors and can support the growth of pathogenic microorganisms, increasing the
risk of waterborne diseases. Similarly, elevated chloride (Cl⁻) levels from domestic
salts and industrial effluents increase the salinity of water, making it unsuitable for
irrigation, domestic use, or consumption by freshwater species.

The presence of carbonate and bicarbonate ions affects the hardness and alkalinity of
water, which can interfere with aquatic life and water treatment processes. Heavy
metals such as iron (Fe²⁺), if present in excess, can lead to bioaccumulation in aquatic
organisms, ultimately entering the food chain and affecting human health. Hence,
monitoring and analyzing these ions in sewage water provides essential information
about the chemical quality and ecological impact of wastewater.

Understanding the ionic composition of sewage water helps environmental scientists,

municipal authorities, and water treatment professionals design appropriate strategies
for wastewater treatment and pollution control. Treatment methods such as
sedimentation, chemical precipitation, filtration, and biological treatment are more
effective when the types and concentration of ions are known. Furthermore, this analysis
supports environmental regulations by ensuring that sewage discharged into rivers,
lakes, or groundwater meets safety standards, protecting biodiversity and maintaining
the balance of ecosystems.

.
 Conclusion
The qualitative analysis of cations and anions in sewage water provides critical
insights into its chemical composition and potential environmental impact.
Through systematic testing, the presence of cations such as ammonium
(NH₄⁺), calcium (Ca²⁺), and iron (Fe²⁺), and anions such as carbonate
(CO₃²⁻), chloride (Cl⁻), sulphate (SO₄²⁻), nitrate (NO₃⁻), and phosphate
(PO₄³⁻) was confirmed in the sample. These ions originate from domestic
waste, detergents, fertilizers, and industrial effluents, highlighting the degree
of contamination in sewage water.
The pH analysis indicated that the sewage water is slightly basic, which aligns
with the presence of alkaline ions like carbonates and ammonium. This
chemical nature affects aquatic life, the solubility of ions, and the efficiency of
water treatment methods. The combined observation table allowed clear
documentation of all tests, making the identification of ions systematic and
reliable.
From an environmental perspective, the analysis underscores the risks
associated with untreated sewage discharge. Excess nitrates and phosphates
can cause eutrophication, ammonium contributes to waterborne diseases, and
heavy metals like iron can accumulate in the food chain. Understanding the
ionic composition provides the scientific basis for effective wastewater
treatment, ensuring safe water for both humans and ecosystems.
In summary, this project demonstrates that qualitative chemical analysis is
an essential tool for monitoring water quality. It emphasizes the importance
of proper sewage treatment to prevent environmental pollution, safeguard
aquatic life, and protect public health. The study also reinforces how simple
laboratory techniques can be applied to real-world environmental
challenges, bridging theoretical chemistry with practical, sustainable
solutions.
BIBLIOGRAPHY

1. NCERT Textbook – Chemistry, Class XII

o National Council of Educational Research and Training, 2025

Edition.
2. CBSE Laboratory Manual – Chemistry, Class XII
o Experiments on Qualitative Analysis of Ions
o Central Board of Secondary Education, New Delhi, 2025.
3. V. K. Ahluwalia and Renu Aggarwal – Experiments in Chemistry
for Class XII, 2024 Edition, S. Chand Publication.
4. Environmental Chemistry Resources
o Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – Water Quality and

Pollution Reports
o Website: [Link] (Accessed December 2025)
5. Practical Chemistry Guide – Class XII, CBSE
o Published by Oswal Publishers, 2025 Edition.

6. Internet Resources (for additional theory and diagrams)

o Websites:

 [Link]

 [Link]

o Accessed December 2025