0.1 M Sulfuric Acid Preparation
Introduction
Sulfuric acid (H2SO4) is a strong acid widely used in various laboratory applications, including acid-base titrations, electrolysis, and organic synthesis. In this article, we will discuss the preparation of 0.1 M sulfuric acid solution, which is a common concentration used in many laboratory procedures.
Materials
- Sulfuric acid (98% or concentrated H2SO4)
- Distilled water
- Volumetric flask (100 mL or 250 mL)
- Pipette (10 mL or 25 mL)
Preparation
Step 1: Calculate the Volume of Sulfuric Acid Required
To prepare 0.1 M sulfuric acid solution, we need to calculate the volume of sulfuric acid required. The molarity of a solution is defined as the number of moles of solute per liter of solution. Since we want to prepare 0.1 M solution, we need to calculate the number of moles of H2SO4 required.
Molarity (M) = Number of moles of solute (n) / Volume of solution (L)
n = M x L n = 0.1 M x 0.1 L (for 100 mL volumetric flask) n = 0.01 mol
Step 2: Calculate the Volume of Sulfuric Acid Required
The molecular weight of sulfuric acid (H2SO4) is 98.08 g/mol. We can calculate the mass of H2SO4 required:
Mass of H2SO4 = Number of moles x Molecular weight = 0.01 mol x 98.08 g/mol = 0.9808 g
Since we are using 98% concentrated sulfuric acid, we need to calculate the volume of acid required:
Volume of H2SO4 = Mass of H2SO4 / Concentration of H2SO4 = 0.9808 g / (98% x 1.84 g/mL) = 0.53 mL (for 98% H2SO4)
Step 3: Prepare the 0.1 M Sulfuric Acid Solution
Using a pipette, carefully add 0.53 mL of concentrated sulfuric acid to a 100 mL volumetric flask. Make sure to handle the acid with caution and wear protective gloves and eyewear.
Add Distilled Water
Slowly add distilled water to the flask while swirling gently. Make sure to rinse the pipette tip with distilled water to ensure all the acid is transferred.
Dissolve the Acid
Continue swirling the flask until the acid is fully dissolved. You may notice the solution becoming warm due to the exothermic reaction between the acid and water.
Final Solution
Once the solution is prepared, label the flask with the date, concentration, and any other relevant information. The 0.1 M sulfuric acid solution is now ready for use in your laboratory applications.
Important Notes
- Always handle sulfuric acid with caution and wear protective gear, including gloves and eyewear.
- Make sure the volumetric flask is clean and dry before preparing the solution.
- Store the prepared solution in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
By following these steps, you can accurately prepare a 0.1 M sulfuric acid solution for your laboratory needs.
