0.1 M Acetic Acid Preparation
Introduction
Acetic acid is a weak organic acid commonly used in various laboratory applications, including as a solvent, a buffer, and a reagent. In many experimental protocols, a 0.1 M acetic acid solution is required. In this guide, we will provide a step-by-step protocol for preparing a 0.1 M acetic acid solution.
Materials
- Glacial acetic acid (CH₃COOH)
- Distilled water
- Volumetric flask (1 L)
- Pipette (10 mL)
Protocol
Step 1: Calculate the Volume of Acetic Acid Required
To prepare a 0.1 M acetic acid solution, you need to calculate the volume of glacial acetic acid required. The molecular weight of acetic acid is 60.05 g/mol.
Formula:
Volume of acetic acid (mL) = (Molarity x Molar mass x Volume of solution) / Density of acetic acid
where: Molarity = 0.1 M Molar mass = 60.05 g/mol Volume of solution = 1 L = 1000 mL Density of acetic acid = 1.05 g/mL (at 20°C)
Volume of acetic acid (mL) = (0.1 x 60.05 x 1000) / 1.05 ≈ 5.71 mL
Step 2: Measure and Add Acetic Acid
Using a pipette, accurately measure 5.71 mL of glacial acetic acid and add it to a 1 L volumetric flask.
Step 3: Add Distilled Water
Add distilled water to the volumetric flask until the 1 L mark is reached.
Step 4: Mix and Label
Mix the solution well by shaking the flask gently. Label the flask with the solution name, concentration, and date of preparation.
Precautions
- Handle glacial acetic acid with care, as it is corrosive and can cause skin and eye irritation.
- Wear protective gloves, goggles, and a lab coat when handling the acid.
- Prepare the solution in a fume hood or a well-ventilated area.
Conclusion
By following this protocol, you should be able to prepare a 0.1 M acetic acid solution accurately and safely. This solution can be used in various laboratory applications, such as buffers, chromatography, and biochemical reactions.
References
- ACS Reagent Chemicals: Specifications and Procedures for Reagents and Standard-Grade Reference Materials. American Chemical Society, 2017.
- The Merck Index: An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Merck & Co., Inc., 2013.
