Preliminary observation is the record of the physical appearance of the supplied salt.
In preliminary observation, we note down State, Colour, Odour and Solubility.
State is either Crystalline or Amorphous.
The salt is called Crystalline, when it feels like sugar on rubbing on the palm of hand.
The salt is called Amorphous, when it feels like flour on rubbing on the palm of hand.
The colour of the salt is easily visible, so it will take least effort to find out.
Odour can be of various types –
If the salt smells like than of public toilet, it contains ammonium ion.
If the salt smells like rotten egg, it contains Sulphide ion.
If the salt smells like vinegar, it contains acetate ion.
Thanks for your time. 🙂
Shankharaj Sarkar 