Weak Acid - Strong Base titration. Too little information?

In summary: After discussing the necessary formulas and equations, the person is directed to a helpful resource on titration calculations. In summary, the conversation includes a student seeking help for a chemistry assignment that requires knowledge of challenging content not discussed in class. They need to find the concentration of an acid given information about the base, acid, and solution. A resource for titration calculations is suggested to help with this task.
  • #1
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Homework Statement


In order to achieve a high result in this chemistry assignment, I need to have demonstrated a knowledge of challenging content not discussed in class. Every other part of this assignment I've covered (Intro, method, discussion etc), I am just stuck with the calculations.

This is what I know:
Base: Sodium Hydroxide
Acid: Acetic Acid
Concentration of Base: 1.06M
pH of solution: 7
Volume of Base: 20mL
Volume of Acid: 26mL
pKa of Acid: 4.75

What I need to find out:
Concentration of Acid.

Homework Equations


Henderson Hasselbalch Equation ?
Not really sure what else is needed.

The Attempt at a Solution


Not even the slightest clue as to where to begin.
 
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  • #2
If you say the content was not covered in class, then you may find this a useful resource. (Since you said you need to demonstrate a knowledge not simple "answer this one question"). This link has a series of short video lectures covering tritation and such.

http://www.khanacademy.org/?video=titration-roundup#chemistry

In the center column, you will see the Acid/Base lecture where it starts, but you might want to begin with the Buffers and Hendersen Hasselbalch video.
 
  • #3
Thank you that looks to be a great resource.
 
  • #5


I would suggest reaching out to your teacher or professor for clarification on the assignment requirements and the specific calculations needed. It is important to have a clear understanding of the task at hand before attempting to solve it. Additionally, it may be helpful to review the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation and any relevant class notes or textbook sections related to acid-base titrations. You may also consider consulting with classmates or doing further research on the specific acids and bases involved in the titration. With more information and a better understanding of the problem, you will be able to approach the calculations with more confidence and accuracy.
 

FAQ: Weak Acid - Strong Base titration. Too little information?

1. What is the purpose of a Weak Acid - Strong Base titration?

The purpose of a Weak Acid - Strong Base titration is to determine the concentration of a weak acid solution by adding a strong base solution until the equivalence point is reached. This allows for the calculation of the acid's dissociation constant, which can provide information about its strength.

2. How do you determine the equivalence point in a Weak Acid - Strong Base titration?

The equivalence point in a Weak Acid - Strong Base titration is determined by using an indicator or a pH meter. The indicator will change color when the acid and base have reacted in equal amounts, while the pH meter will show a sudden increase in pH at the equivalence point.

3. What is the difference between an endpoint and an equivalence point in a Weak Acid - Strong Base titration?

The endpoint is when the indicator or pH meter shows a change, indicating that the reaction is close to completion. The equivalence point is when the acid and base have reacted in equal amounts and the reaction is considered complete. In an ideal titration, the endpoint and equivalence point would be the same, but they may differ due to limitations in the indicator or experimental errors.

4. How do you calculate the concentration of the weak acid from a Weak Acid - Strong Base titration?

To calculate the concentration of the weak acid, you need to know the volume and concentration of the strong base solution, as well as the volume of the weak acid solution used in the titration. Using the mole ratio between the acid and base, you can calculate the moles of the acid used. Then, by dividing the moles by the volume of the acid solution, you can determine the molarity of the weak acid.

5. What are some potential sources of error in a Weak Acid - Strong Base titration?

Potential sources of error in a Weak Acid - Strong Base titration include inaccurate measurements, incomplete reaction, improper calibration of the pH meter, and the presence of impurities in the solutions. It is important to carefully handle and measure the solutions and perform multiple trials to minimize these errors.

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