Quantitative Analytical Methods: Titration
Introduction
Titration is a quantitative analytical method used to determine the concentration of a known analyte (the substance being measured) in a solution by reacting it with a reagent of known concentration (the titrant). The reaction between the analyte and titrant is typically a neutralization reaction, a redox reaction, or a precipitation reaction.Basic Concepts
Equivalence point:The point at which the moles of analyte and moles of titrant are equal. Titration curve: A graph that plots the pH or potential of the solution as a function of the volume of titrant added.Endpoint:* The point at which the indicator changes color, signaling the approximate equivalence point.
Equipment and Techniques
Buret:A graduated glass tube used to accurately measure the volume of titrant added. Erlenmeyer flask: A conical flask used to hold the analyte solution.Indicator:A substance that changes color at or near the equivalence point. Standard solution: A solution of known concentration used as the titrant.
Titration Techniques
Direct titration:The analyte solution is titrated directly with the titrant. Back titration: A known excess of titrant is added to the analyte solution, and the excess is then titrated with a second reagent.Types of Experiments
Acid-base titration:Determines the concentration of an acid or base using a strong acid or base as the titrant. Redox titration: Determines the concentration of a reducing or oxidizing agent using a suitable titrant.Precipitation titration:* Determines the concentration of a soluble ion by precipitating it with a titrant that forms a precipitate with the ion.
Data Analysis
The equivalence point is determined by analyzing the titration curve. The concentration of the analyte can be calculated using the formula:
Concentration of analyte = (Molarity of titrant * Volume of titrant) / Volume of analyte
Applications
Titration is widely used in various fields, including:Analytical chemistry: Determining the concentration of various substances in solutions. Environmental chemistry: Measuring the concentration of pollutants in water and soil.
Food chemistry: Analyzing the composition and quality of food products. Pharmaceutical chemistry: Determining the purity and potency of drugs.