Preparation of 0.1 M Sodium Bicarbonate Solution
Introduction
Sodium bicarbonate, also known as baking soda, is a commonly used reagent in various scientific applications. A 0.1 M sodium bicarbonate solution is a crucial component in many laboratory procedures, including buffering systems, biological experiments, and pharmaceutical applications. In this article, we will guide you through the preparation of a 0.1 M sodium bicarbonate solution.
Materials
- Sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3)
- Distilled water
- A balance or scale
- A volumetric flask (100 mL or 1 L)
- A pipette or measuring cylinder
Preparation
Step 1: Calculate the Amount of Sodium Bicarbonate Required
To prepare a 0.1 M sodium bicarbonate solution, you need to calculate the amount of sodium bicarbonate required. The molar mass of sodium bicarbonate is 84.006 g/mol.
For a 100 mL solution:
- Molarity (M) = 0.1 mol/L
- Volume (V) = 100 mL = 0.1 L
- Number of moles (n) = Molarity x Volume = 0.1 mol/L x 0.1 L = 0.01 mol
- Mass of sodium bicarbonate (m) = Number of moles x Molar mass = 0.01 mol x 84.006 g/mol = 0.8406 g
For a 1 L solution:
- Molarity (M) = 0.1 mol/L
- Volume (V) = 1 L
- Number of moles (n) = Molarity x Volume = 0.1 mol/L x 1 L = 0.1 mol
- Mass of sodium bicarbonate (m) = Number of moles x Molar mass = 0.1 mol x 84.006 g/mol = 8.4006 g
Step 2: Weigh the Sodium Bicarbonate
Using a balance or scale, accurately weigh the calculated amount of sodium bicarbonate.
Step 3: Add Distilled Water
Transfer the weighed sodium bicarbonate to a volumetric flask (100 mL or 1 L) and add distilled water slowly while stirring until the solid is completely dissolved.
Step 4: Mix Well and Filter (Optional)
Mix the solution well to ensure that the sodium bicarbonate is fully dissolved. If necessary, filter the solution through a filter paper or a 0.22 μm filter to remove any impurities.
Step 5: Store the Solution
Store the prepared 0.1 M sodium bicarbonate solution in a clean, labeled container and keep it in a cool, dry place.
Tips and Precautions
- Always handle sodium bicarbonate with care, as it can cause skin and eye irritation.
- Wear protective gloves, goggles, and a lab coat when handling the reagent.
- Use distilled water to prepare the solution to minimize impurities.
- If you are preparing a large volume of the solution, consider using a larger volumetric flask or dividing the preparation into smaller batches.
By following these steps, you can prepare a 0.1 M sodium bicarbonate solution with high accuracy and precision. Remember to handle the reagents with care and follow proper laboratory protocols to ensure a safe and successful experiment.
