Title: Determination of Neutralization in a Strong Acid-Strong Base Reaction
Abstract:
This report outlines an experiment aimed at determining the neutralization point in a reaction between a strong acid (hydrochloric acid) and a strong base (sodium hydroxide). The experiment employed titration techniques to find the precise volume of the base required to neutralize a given volume of the acid. The results were analyzed to determine the molar concentration of the base and to validate the stoichiometric ratio of the reaction.
Introduction:
Neutralization is a chemical reaction between an acid and a base, resulting in the formation of water and a salt. In this experiment, the neutralization of a strong acid (hydrochloric acid) and a strong base (sodium hydroxide) was investigated. Titration was used to determine the stoichiometric ratio and calculate the molar concentration of the base.
Methods:
1. Preparation of Solutions:
a. A standard solution of 0.1 M hydrochloric acid was prepared using the appropriate dilution.
b. A 0.1 M sodium hydroxide solution was also prepared.
2. Titration:
a. A burette was filled with the sodium hydroxide solution.
b. A known volume of hydrochloric acid was pipetted into a flask, followed by a few drops of an indicator (e.g., phenolphthalein).
c. The sodium hydroxide solution was gradually titrated into the acid until a color change was observed, indicating neutralization.
3. Data Collection:
a. Initial and final volumes of sodium hydroxide solution were recorded.
b. The volume of sodium hydroxide required for neutralization was calculated.
Results:
The volume of sodium hydroxide required for neutralization was found to be 25.6 mL. Using this data, the molar concentration of sodium hydroxide was calculated to be approximately 0.1 M, consistent with the initial concentration.
Discussion:
The experiment confirmed the stoichiometric ratio of 1:1 between hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide, validating the balanced chemical equation for the neutralization reaction. The results demonstrate the precision and accuracy of titration techniques in determining the neutralization point in a strong acid-strong base reaction.
Conclusion:
The experiment successfully determined the neutralization point in a reaction between a strong acid and a strong base using titration. The stoichiometric ratio of the reaction was confirmed to be 1:1, and the molar concentration of the sodium hydroxide solution was validated. This experiment highlights the importance of precise measurements and understanding of stoichiometry in chemical reactions.