Overview

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• Source: Microbioz India


• Date: 16 Nov,2024

Titration forms a basis in most chemical analyses as a technique that assists in establishing the concentration levels of a particular soluble subcomponent. It is extensively utilized in labs, although it can yield unsatisfactory results quite frequently. Even well versed professionals may face mistakes that compromise the accuracy of their execution.

This article will look at the top five common mistakes done in titration and some solutions to remedy those problems.

Formulation Errors

One of the most common errors made during titration is the titrant or analyte solutions being formulated incorrectly. Irrespective of whether it was the concentration that was incorrectly determined, whether or not the substance used was impure or even if there could have been any form of contamination, all these mistakes are bound to distort the findings.

How To fix It:

1. Whenever it is needed or possible, take advantage of high-purity reagents and prepare fresh solutions.
2. Do not leave any unwashed or uncalibrated equipment, such as pipettes and beakers, lying about.
3. Before commencing the experiment, confirm the concentration of the titrant and analyzer targets for the experiment.

Also read:

Common Titration Errors to Avoid and How to Correct Them

Inaccurate Endpoint Recognition

The relevant detecting endpoint of the titration stage is very critical. Some of the reasons that can lead to failure to obtain good results include failure to alter the expected color range in completion, excessive completing of the sample and simply, failure to determine the endpoint in its entirety. This problem is common with most people who tend to determine the end points of sample testing visually by the use of visible indicators such as phenolphthalein.

How to fix It:

1. You can use a pH meter or a mechanical Automatic Titrator which can provide a more accurate and objective endpoint than a visual endpoint.
2. If visual indicators have to be used then, do practice titrating as to get used to such small color changes and be cautious in the last stages of a titration.

Burette misuse

The burette is a crucial piece of equipment in titration and any mistakes made in its operation could add serious problems such as unsteady flow as well as tiny bubbles that are formed in the titrant thus causing the titrant volume to distort.

How to fix It:

1. Be on the safe side by getting rid of all existent air bubbles found in the burette, air bubbles are a hindrance. When any bubbles exist, make sure to kindly draw titrant through the burette tip to clear them out.
2. All readings must be taken from the true level as no man is perfect, and we all have our limitations. Parallax errors then egos will be the cause of mistakes in readings. All bubbles are removed, and all facts and ideas considered.
3. The volumetric flow rates of the burette are abnormal; take periodic cleaning and examination of the burette for blockage and damages.

Haphazard Convection

Addition of the titrant onto the solution without fully mixing it uniformly will cause an asymmetrical reaction to happen thus extending the endpoint target which will then impact the result.

How to fix It:

1. While carrying out titration, the magnetic stirrer or swirl the flask around to constantly agitate the solution. In this manner, the titrant can evenly react with the analyte and reach a more accurate endpoint.
2. Don’t mix too vigorously to the point of splashing or spilling the solution that could interfere with your measurements.

Temperature Effects Are Ignored.

In practical work involving titration, temperature is also a factor that can affect the result of the titration, especially in the heat sensitive reactions. It should be remembered that there is no constant result if temperature changes are not accounted as reaction rates are temperature dependent.

How to fix it:

1. When performing titrations, ideally the same temperatures should be used throughout the experiment where possible. Most laboratories work around room temperature, but in more delicate types of titrations, a water bath at specific temperatures must be used.
2. In situations where temperature shifts are impossible to prevent, such distortions should be factored in the calculations and in cases where the titrations are gases or involve temperature sensitive constituents.

Ending Thoughts:

Titration is one of the most accurate and precise analytical strategies that needs to be executed with utmost caution, however, by avoiding some of the most general mistakes can greatly help in the accuracy of the results of your experiment. It is possible to minimize the error of your titrations significantly by ensuring proper solution preparation, better endpoint detection and more accurate use of the burette while also ensuring adequate closure to mixing operations and controlling for temperature variations. You need to stick with these instructions in your next analysis procedure and you will be in perfect position to perform any type of analysis and achieve correct and reproducible results.