TITRATION LAB

What’s the lab about?

This lab was about determining citric acid concentration using acid-base titration.

How was the lab carried out? What did you do?

A burette was filled with NaOH and citric acid was placed in an Erlenmeyer flask. Phenolphthalein was added and NaOH was slowly added until a faint pink endpoint appeared.

What is the purpose of this lab?

The purpose was to determine the concentration of citric acid experimentally.

How did you do the calculations? What do the calculations represent/what is their importance?

Calculations included:

• average volume

• moles using n = CV

• concentration

• percent error

These calculations determine unknown solution concentration.

Can you identify/name the different pieces of equipment/materials that were used?

• Burette

• Pipette

• Erlenmeyer flask

• Funnel

• Phenolphthalein

Can you identify which equipment would be best suited for each lab/goal?

• Burette → precise liquid delivery

• Pipette → exact volume transfer

• Erlenmeyer flask → swirling during titration

Do you know how to properly use the equipment?

Burettes must be rinsed first and air bubbles removed. Pipettes measure exact volumes. The flask must be swirled constantly.

Can you explain the chemistry concepts demonstrated in this lab?

Neutralization reactions occur between acids and bases. Indicators show when stoichiometric amounts have reacted.

Can you discuss potential errors for the lab?

Possible errors:

• Overshooting endpoint

• Air bubbles

• Meniscus reading error