a technique in volumetric analysis that is used to find the exact volumes of solutions that react with each other

how much 3D space matter occupies, it is often measured in cm³

when just enough solution has been added from the burette to react with all the solution in the flask in a titration

the curve that exists on the surface of a liquid when it is in a container

Titrations: making soluble salts

Combined science

In the Electrolysis unit, pupils will build on their understanding of chemical reactions to explore the process of electrolysis and its applications.

In the Acids and Bases unit, pupils learned about the properties of acids, bases, and alkalis, and the reactions between them to form salts and water.

Making salts

Physical activity and equipment requiring safe use

Measures and dispenses precise volumes of acid or alkali.

Transfers a fixed volume of solution to the conical flask.

Match each piece of apparatus used in titration to its correct function.

Use a volumetric pipette to add a fixed volume of alkali to the flask. 

Add a few drops of indicator to the solution in the flask.  

Fill the burette with acid and record the starting volume.

Slowly add acid, drop-by-drop near the end point, whilst swirling the flask.

Stop when the indicator changes colour permanently, indicating neutralisation. 

Record the final volume of acid in the burette.  

Sort the steps of performing a titration into the correct order.

To accurately measure the volume of acid or alkali needed for neutralisation.

To determine how strong an acid or alkali is.

To heat up acids and bases to their boiling points.

To identify the type of salt produced in a reaction.

They are always very concentrated solutions.  

They are completely ionised in an aqueous solution.  

They neutralise each other without producing any products.

Which of the following statements describes strong acids and alkalis, used in titrations, most accurately?

It changes colour gradually to show progress.  

It speeds up the reaction between the acid and alkali.

It provides a sharp colour change at the end point of the reaction.  

Why is a suitable indicator (not universal indicator) used in titration?

To ensure that the reaction reaches completion and all ions are used.  

Because strong acids and alkalis are safer to handle.  

To produce a more concentrated salt solution.

Why are strong acids and strong alkalis used in titrations?

Diluting an acid with water to make it weaker.

Mixing an acid with a solid to release heat.

Reacting an acid with a base to form water and a salt.

Combining two acids to form a stronger one.

They are always more concentrated than weak acids and alkalis.  

They cannot be neutralised by a base or acid.

What is a characteristic of strong acids and alkalis?

Strength and concentration are the same thing.

Strength refers to how much acid is dissolved in water.  

Strength is how easily an acid ionises in water.  

Concentration refers to how much acid is dissolved in water.  

Concentration is how easily an acid ionises in water.  

What is the difference between the concentration and strength of an acid?

What happens when an acid reacts with a soluble base (alkali) in a neutralisation reaction?

To show when the acid and base have reacted completely.  

To change the colour of the solution permanently.  

Why might you use an indicator in a neutralisation reaction between an acid and a base?

Use a spoon to add small amounts at a time. 

Use a piece of equipment that allows precise control over the amount of liquid.

What is the most accurate way to measure the volume of a liquid?

Content guidance

Risk assessment required - chemicals

Risk assessment required - equipment

Adult supervision required

Starter Quiz