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pH Curves
As a volumetric analysis occurs, the pH of the aliquot solution will slowly change as the burette solution is added. This
will manifest itself as a gradual change in pH as the reaction slowly occurs, followed by a rapid change (signified by a
steep section on the pH curve) to the opposite side of the pH spectrum.
Based on the combination, an educated guess can be made on the starting pH and ending pH.
General combinations
Aliquot Solution
Burette Solution
Starting pH
Ending pH
Strong Acid
Weak Acid
Strong Acid
Weak Acid
Strong Base
Weak Base
Weak Base
Strong Base
1-3
4-7
1-3
4-7
11-14
7-10
7-10
11-14
Equivalence
Point pH
7
7
4-6
8-10
Note: DO NOT take these numbers at face value. Have an idea of the general range for what you expect to see. As pH
is based on concentration, it is entirely possible to have a weak acid with a lower pH than a strong acid. The above
numbers assume equal concentration for all the samples so pH of the weak acid is higher than that of the strong acid.
If the base is in the aliquot solution, simply reverse the order of numbers.
Cases In-depth
Weak Acid + Strong Base
1. Initial pH is higher than that of strong acids (assuming equal
concentration)
2. Sharp increase in pH as base is added
3. Buffering action of weak acid slows the pH change, but as the
base volume increases, it reaches a point where it overcomes
the buffer action.
4. At the equivalence point, the weak acid + strong base
reaction produces an alkaline salt. Hence the equivalence
point is above 7.
Strong Base + Weak Acid
1. Initial pH is very high due to it being a strong base
2. As acid as added, pH gradually decreases
3. At the equivalence point, an alkaline salt is produced. Hence
pH is above 7
4. As more acid is added, the weak acid forms a buffer system
which minimizes further change in pH for comparable
volumes.