Chapter 35: Problem 19

Comment upon the statement: The equivalence point for titration of a weak acid with a strong base lies in the alkaline region.

Short Answer

Expert verified

The statement is correct. The equivalence point for titration of a weak acid with a strong base does indeed lie in the alkaline region because the solution produced at the equivalence point is basic, leading to a pH above 7.

Step by step solution

Understanding Acid-Base Titrations

Acid-base titration involves the gradual addition of an acidic or basic titrant to an acidic or basic solution. The solution's pH changes as the titrant is added and is measured throughout the reaction. The point at which the reaction is neutralized is called the equivalence point. At this point, the concentrations of the acid and base are equal.

Concept of Strong Base and Weak Acid

A weak acid is an acid that doesn't ionize completely in an aqueous solution, where only a small fraction of its molecules donate protons (H+ ions). On the other hand, a strong base completely dissociates into metal ions and hydroxide ions in solution. Examples of strong bases are Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH) and Potassium Hydroxide (KOH). When a weak acid reacts with a strong base, the resultant solution is basic due to the excess hydroxide ions.

pH at the Equivalence Point

During the titration of a weak acid with a strong base, the equivalence point is reached when all the weak acid has reacted with the strong base. At this point, all the weak acid has been neutralized by the strong base, forming a salt and water. The resultant solution pH is determined by the anion of the weak acid and the cation of the strong base. The weak acid's anion can accept a proton (H+) from water, increasing the concentration of OH-, which causes the solution to become basic. This results in a pH above 7 at the equivalence point, which lies in the alkaline region.

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Comment upon the statement: The equivalence point for titration of a weak acid with a strong base lies in the alkaline region.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Understanding Acid-Base Titrations

Concept of Strong Base and Weak Acid

pH at the Equivalence Point

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