Determination of the heat of reaction of HCl with NaOH

Method

• using a graduated cylinder place a known volume of HCl in a polystyrene cup

• usinge a separate graduated cylinder place a known volume of NaOH into a separate polystyrene cup

• both solutions should be the same concentration

• allow both cups to come to the same temperature

• pour the NaOH to the HCl and quickly place lid on the cup

• a digital thermometer is used to record the temperature increase

• cups are swirled

• heat rise is recorded and heat of neutralisation is calculated

Why is polystyrene used?

is a good insulator

What precautions are take?

• care is taken to avoid loss of liquid due to splashing as this would change the volume used and impact results

• stir to ensure the temperature is constant througout

• digital thermometer is used which is more accurate than alcohol thermometers

• lid reduces heat loss to surrounding

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