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Burriel: A Classic Textbook on Qualitative Analytical Chemistry

Qualitative analytical chemistry is the branch of chemistry that deals with the identification of the chemical components of a sample. It is a fundamental skill for any chemist, as it allows to determine the nature and composition of unknown substances.

One of the most widely used and respected textbooks on qualitative analytical chemistry is Burriel, written by Francisco Burriel Martí, Fernando Lucena Conde, Santiago Arribas Jimeno and Carlos Jiménez Díaz. The first edition was published in 1951 by Editorial Paraninfo, and it has been updated and revised several times since then.

Burriel covers the theoretical and practical aspects of qualitative analysis, with a clear and rigorous exposition of the principles, methods and techniques involved. It includes chapters on general concepts, such as the law of mass action, oxidation-reduction reactions, solubility product, sensitivity and selectivity; as well as chapters on specific groups of cations and anions, with detailed descriptions of their reactions, separations and identifications.

Burriel also provides useful information on laboratory procedures, such as reagents preparation, solution manipulation, precipitation, filtration, washing, drying, weighing, etc. It also introduces some instrumental methods of analysis, such as microscopy, spectroscopy, chromatography and electrophoresis.

Burriel is a comprehensive and authoritative reference for students and teachers of qualitative analytical chemistry, as well as for professionals who need to perform qualitative analysis in their fields. It is available in PDF format from various online sources[^1^] [^2^] [^3^].

Qualitative Analytical Chemistry: Applications and Benefits

Qualitative analytical chemistry has many applications and benefits in various fields and domains. Some of the most common and important ones are:

• Assuring the safety and quality of food, pharmaceuticals, and water. Qualitative analysis can help to detect the presence of contaminants, adulterants, toxins, pathogens, allergens, nutrients, and other substances that may affect the health and well-being of consumers. For example, qualitative analysis can be used to test the purity of water, milk, and solvents[^4^]; to identify the components within an unknown substance[^1^]; and to check the self-life and half-life of drugs[^1^].
• Assuring compliance with environmental and other regulations. Qualitative analysis can help to monitor and control the levels of pollutants, wastes, emissions, and residues that may harm the environment and violate the laws and standards. For example, qualitative analysis can be used to measure the concentration of heavy metals, pesticides, organic compounds, and other substances in soil, water, air, and biota.
• Advancing scientific knowledge and innovation. Qualitative analysis can help to discover new phenomena, properties, reactions, and materials that can enhance our understanding of nature and improve our technology. For example, qualitative analysis can be used to explore the structure and composition of matter at different scales, from atoms and molecules to cells and tissues; to investigate the mechanisms and kinetics of chemical processes; and to synthesize novel compounds with desired functions.

Qualitative analytical chemistry is a valuable tool for solving problems, answering questions, and creating opportunities in various domains. It is essential for any chemist who wants to master the art and science of identifying what is present in a sample.