Video: Reaction of lead(II) ion with hydroxide ion

Lead is another amphoteric metal. In this case, we show that addition of hydroxide ion to lead(II) ion initially gives a white precipitate of lead(II) hydroxide.

Pb2+(aq) + 2 OH-(aq) ® Pb(OH)2(s)

Addition of excess hydroxide ion results in the formation of the colorless soluble tetrahydroxolead(II) complex ion.

Pb(OH)2(s) + 2 OH-(aq) ? [Pb(OH)4]2-(aq)