A solid X when heated gives off a brown gas. If X is soluble in excess sodium hydroxide solution but insoluble in excess ammonium hydroxide solution, then X is

A.

basic lead carbonate

B.

lead (II) nitrate

C.

sodium carbonate

D.

zinc nitrate

E.

sodium nitrate

Correct answer is B

Lead nitrate reacts with ammonium hydroxide solution to form a white precipitate. This white precipitate does not dissolve in excess ammonium hydroxide.