Secondary IV • 3yr.
Hello,
I have a hard time understanding how an acid-base neutralization is done in a lab. Could you explain it to me please?
Thank you so much!
Hello,
I have a hard time understanding how an acid-base neutralization is done in a lab. Could you explain it to me please?
Thank you so much!
Explanation from Alloprof
This Explanation was submitted by a member of the Alloprof team.
Hi!
Thank you for your question! :)
The technique used to perform a neutralization in the laboratory is titration. This technique makes it possible to determine the concentration of a solute in a solution by using another solution of known concentration. To do this, an amount of solution is slowly added to another solution of unknown concentration. When an equal number of moles of acid and base is present, the solution changes color and the neutralization is complete. One must then use the C1V1 = C2V2 dilution equation. C1 is known in advance, V1 is obtained during the titration, C2 is the unknown variable, and V2 is known in advance.
Now that the theory is explained, let's move on to the laboratory manipulations.
You need a burette; an Erlenmeyer flask; the acid and basic solutions; and an indicator.
The solution of known concentration will end up in the burette and the one we are looking for will end up in the Erlenmeyer flask. After adding a certain volume to the Erlenmeyer flask, add a few drops of the indicator, otherwise it is impossible to know when the neutralization is complete.
Once everything is done, the titration can begin. You have to add liquid slowly so as not to miss the moment when the solution is neutralized. Once the titration is complete, the solution of unknown concentration should be uniformly colored. Note the volume of liquid used in the burette.
Finally, just use the formula C1V1 = C2V2 to find the unknown concentration.
If you have any other questions, don't hesitate to ask them on the forums! :)
-Marilee