(a) When ammonium chloride is reacted with an alkali like NaOH, the colourless gas ammonia having a sharp pungent characteristic smell is evolved. Whereas, sodium chloride (NaCl) does not show any reaction with alkali.
\mathrm{NH_4Cl + NaOH \rightarrow NH_3 \uparrow + NaCl + H_2O}
\mathrm{NaCl + NaOH \rightarrow No\ reaction}
(b) Add sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution first drop by drop and then in excess.
Zinc Nitrate solution: A white gelatinous precipitate of zinc hydroxide forms, which dissolves in excess NaOH to give a clear solution.
Calcium Nitrate solution: A white precipitate of calcium hydroxide forms and remains insoluble even in excess NaOH.