Perform the tests and the controls in glass cylinders of the same diameter and matched as closely as practicable in other respects (see Visual Comparison). Use the same quantities of the same reagents for both the solution under test and the control solution containing the specified  volume of chloride or sulfate. If, after acidification, the solution is not  perfectly clear, fílter it through a filter paper that gives negative tests for chloride and sulfate. Add the precipitant, silver nitrate TS or barium chloride TS as required, to both the test solution and the control solution in immediate sequence. 

Where the individual monograph calls for applying the test to a specific volume of a solution of the substance, and the limit for chloride or sulfate corresponds to 0.20 mL or less of 0.020 N hydrochloric acid or sulfuric  acid, respectively, apply the test to the solution without further dilution. In such cases maintain the same volume relationships for the control solution as specified for the solution under test. In applying the test to the salts of heavy metals, which normally show an acid reaction, omit the acidification and do not neutralize the solution. Dissolve bismuth salts in a few mL of water and 2 mL of nitric acid before treating with the precipitant. 

Chloride: Dissolve the specified quantity of the substance under test in 30 to 40 mL of water, or, where the substance is already in solution, add  water to make a total volume of 30 to 40 mL, and, if necessary, neutralize the solution with nitric acid to litmus. Add 1 mL each of nitric acid and of silver nitrate TS, and sufficient water to make 50 mL. Mix, allow to stand for 5 minutes protected from direct sunlight, and compare the turbidity if any,  with that produced in a solution containing the volume of  0.020 N hydrochloric acid specified in the monograph. 

Sulfate:  Dissolve the specified quantity of the substance under test in 30 to 40 mL of water, or, where the substance is already in solution, add  water to make a total volume of 30 to 40 mL, and, if necessary, neutralize the solution with hydrochloric acid to litmus. Add 1 mL of 3 N hydrochloric acid, 3 mL of barium chloride TS, and sufficient water to make 50 mL. Mix, allow to stand for 10 minutes, and compare the turbidity, if any, with that produced in a solution containing the volume of 0.020 N sulfuric acid specified in the monograph.