Titrations (AQA A-Level Chemistry): Revision Notes
5.6.3 Titrations
Overview of Acid-Base Titrations
An acid-base titration involves adding a solution of known concentration (the titrant) to another solution of unknown concentration until the reaction between them is complete. This is indicated by reaching the equivalence point, where the moles of acid equal the moles of base, resulting in neutralisation.
Performing Titration Calculations
To calculate the concentration of an unknown solution in a titration, use the formula:
The steps are as follows:
- Write the Balanced Equation: Ensure you know the stoicheiometry of the acid-base reaction.
- Calculate Moles of Titrant Added: Use the concentration and volume of the titrant to calculate the number of moles added:
- Determine Unknown Concentration: Rearrange to solve for the unknown concentration using the mole ratio from the balanced equation.
Example Calculation
Example: Titrate 25.0 cm³ of hydrochloric acid () with sodium hydroxide () of known concentration, 0.1 mol dm⁻³, and find the concentration of .
Step 1: Balanced Equation:
Step 2: Calculate Moles of Used
Volume of
Moles of
Step 3: Determine Moles of :
Since the ratio is 1:1, moles of = moles of = 0.002 mol
Step 4: Calculate Concentration of :