Module 5

Lesson 3.1  Reviewing Titration Analysis



Key Concepts


In previous chemistry courses, you performed titrations in acid-base systems. Recall from your previous science courses that a titration allows for the collection of data about the volume of each solution involved in the reaction. Knowing the precise concentration of the titrant allows us to calculate the exact concentration of a sample solution.


Virtual Investigation

 In this activity, you will complete a virtual lab investigation in which you perform a titration and analyze the data you collect.


  1. Open the virtual investigation by clicking on the graphic on the right.
  2. For this virtual investigation select Titration 1 Exercise 1.
  3. Work through Procedure 1  (Coarse Titration) and determine the approximate volume of titrant needed to reach the equivalence point.
  4. Record this value in your Module 5 Summative Assessment.
  5. Next, perform Procedure 2 (Fine Titration). Record the data in your Module 5 Summative Assessment.

    Repeat the fine titration procedure until you obtain at least three  trials with consistent results (within 0.2 mL of each other).
  6. Average your three most consistent trials and record the average volume of titrant in your Module 5 Summative Assessment.



After you complete the titration lab, use the data you recorded to calculate the concentration of the unknown hydrochloric acid solution. Complete all corresponding questions in the Module 5 Summative Assessment.


To further review the laboratory process known as "titration," please read pages 328-332; 596; and 804 in the textbook.

Check Your Understanding


Explain the following aspects of a titration. Click on the link below to check your work.

  1. What unique glassware is used in a titration and what is the function of each piece?

  2. What is an endpoint?

  3. What property of a potassium permanganate solution allows it to be used as an endpoint for a titration?
  1. Burette - measures the volume of titrant added to reach endpoint
    Pipette - delivers a specific volume of solution of unknown concentration (test solution)
  2. The endpoint is the point in a titration when an observable change in the system occurs. Usually, this is a colour change, but it can be another change including pH or conductivity.
  3. Colour, the persistence of the purple MnO4-(aq), indicates an excess of permanganate ion in the solution. The permanganate ion exists in excess in the solution once all the reactant in the test solution has been reacted.