Preparation of 0.1 N H2SO4 Solution
Introduction
Sulfuric acid (H2SO4) is a strong acid widely used in various industries, such as manufacturing fertilizers, dyes, and explosives. In laboratory settings, it is often required to prepare a solution of specific normality (N) for various experiments and reactions. In this article, we will discuss the preparation of a 0.1 N H2SO4 solution.
Theoretical Background
Normality (N) is a measure of the concentration of a solution, defined as the number of equivalents of solute per liter of solution. For an acid like H2SO4, one equivalent is equal to one mole of H+ ions. Therefore, a 0.1 N H2SO4 solution means that one liter of the solution contains 0.1 moles of H+ ions.
Materials Required
- H2SO4 (concentrated sulfuric acid, 98%)
- Distilled water
- A 1-liter volumetric flask
- A pipette or measuring cylinder
- A balance or analytical scale
Preparation of 0.1 N H2SO4 Solution
Step 1: Calculate the Volume of H2SO4 Required
The molecular weight of H2SO4 is 98.08 g/mol. To prepare a 0.1 N H2SO4 solution, we need to calculate the amount of H2SO4 required.
Molarity (M) = Normality (N) x Equivalent weight M = 0.1 N x 49.04 g/equivalent (for H2SO4) M = 0.1 x 49.04 = 4.904 g/L
Mass of H2SO4 required = Molarity x Volume (in liters) Mass = 4.904 g/L x 1 L = 4.904 grams
Step 2: Weigh the Required Amount of H2SO4
Using an analytical balance or scale, accurately weigh 4.904 grams of concentrated H2SO4.
Step 3: Add H2SO4 to the Volumetric Flask
Carefully add the weighed H2SO4 to a 1-liter volumetric flask.
Step 4: Add Distilled Water
Slowly add distilled water to the flask while swirling it gently. Make sure to add water up to the mark on the neck of the flask.
Step 5: Mix Well and Label
Mix the solution well to ensure complete dissolution of H2SO4. Label the flask with the solution's concentration, date, and your name.
Precautions
- Handle concentrated H2SO4 with care, as it is highly corrosive and can cause severe burns.
- Wear protective gloves, goggles, and a lab coat when handling H2SO4.
- Prepare the solution in a fume hood or a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling H2SO4 fumes.
By following these steps, you can accurately prepare a 0.1 N H2SO4 solution for your laboratory experiments.
