Quantitative Chemistry (Stoichiometry)

One mole of any substance contains exactly $N_A = 6.022 \times 10^{23}$ entities (atoms, molecules, ions, or formula units). This is the Avogadro constant.

$$N = \frac{N}{N_A}$$

Where $n$ is the amount in moles and $N$ is the number of entities.

The molar mass $M$ of a substance is the mass of one mole, expressed in $\mathrm{g/mol}$. It is numerically equal to the relative molecular mass $M_r$.

$$N = \frac{m}{M}$$

Where $m$ is the mass in grams.

At standard temperature and pressure (STP: $0^\circ\mathrm{C}$, $1\,\mathrm{atm}$), one mole of any ideal gas occupies $22.4\,\mathrm{dm}^3$. At room temperature and pressure (RTP: $25^\circ\mathrm{C}$, $1\,\mathrm{atm}$), one mole occupies $24.0\,\mathrm{dm}^3$.

$$N = \frac{V}{V_m}$$

Where $V$ is the volume in $\mathrm{dm}^3$ and $V_m$ is the molar volume.

The empirical formula gives the simplest whole-number ratio of atoms in a compound.

Procedure:

1. Write the mass (or percentage mass) of each element.
2. Divide each by its relative atomic mass to get moles.
3. Divide all mole values by the smallest.
4. Round to the nearest whole number (or multiply to clear fractions).

The molecular formula is a whole-number multiple of the empirical formula:

$$\mathrm{Molecular formula} = (\mathrm{Empirical formula})_n$$

Where $n = M_r(\mathrm{molecular}) / M_r(\mathrm{empirical})$.

Worked Example. A compound contains 40.0% carbon, 6.7% hydrogen, and 53.3% oxygen by mass. Its relative molecular mass is 60.0.

Element	Mass (%)	$M_r$	Moles	Ratio
C	40.0	12.0	3.33	1
H	6.7	1.0	6.7	2
O	53.3	16.0	3.33	1

Empirical formula: $\mathrm{CH}_2\mathrm{O}$ ($M_r = 30.0$).

$$N = \frac{60.0}{30.0} = 2$$

Molecular formula: $\mathrm{C}_2\mathrm{H}_4\mathrm{O}_2$ (ethanoic acid).

Given a balanced chemical equation, the molar ratios define the proportions in which reactants combine and products form.

Worked Example. Calculate the mass of $\mathrm{CaCO}_3$ required to produce $5.60\,\mathrm{dm}^3$ of $\mathrm{CO}_2$ at RTP.

$$\mathrm{CaCO}_3(s) + 2\mathrm{HCl}(aq) \to \mathrm{CaCl}_2(aq) + \mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O}(l) + \mathrm{CO}_2(g)$$ $$N(\mathrm{CO}_2) = \frac{5.60}{24.0} = 0.233\,\mathrm{mol}$$

From the stoichiometry, $n(\mathrm{CaCO}_3) = n(\mathrm{CO}_2) = 0.233\,\mathrm{mol}$.

$$M(\mathrm{CaCO}_3) = 0.233 \times 100.1 = 23.3\,\mathrm{g}$$

The limiting reagent is the reactant that is entirely consumed first, limiting the amount of product formed. The reactant in excess is not completely used up.

Procedure:

1. Calculate the number of moles of each reactant.
2. Determine the mole ratio from the balanced equation.
3. Identify which reactant produces the smaller amount of product.

Worked Example. $10.0\,\mathrm{g}$ of $\mathrm{Al}$ reacts with $30.0\,\mathrm{g}$ of $\mathrm{Cl}_2$:

$$2\mathrm{Al} + 3\mathrm{Cl}_2 \to 2\mathrm{AlCl}_3$$ $$N(\mathrm{Al}) = \frac{10.0}{27.0} = 0.370\,\mathrm{mol}$$ $$N(\mathrm{Cl}_2) = \frac{30.0}{71.0} = 0.423\,\mathrm{mol}$$

Required ratio: $n(\mathrm{Al}) : n(\mathrm{Cl}_2) = 2 : 3$.

Check Al: $0.370\,\mathrm{mol}$ Al requires $\frac{3}{2} \times 0.370 = 0.555\,\mathrm{mol}$ $\mathrm{Cl}_2$. Only $0.423\,\mathrm{mol}$ available. $\mathrm{Cl}_2$ is limiting.

$$N(\mathrm{AlCl}_3) = \frac{2}{3} \times 0.423 = 0.282\,\mathrm{mol}$$ $$M(\mathrm{AlCl}_3) = 0.282 \times 133.3 = 37.6\,\mathrm{g}$$$$\mathrm{Percentage yield} = \frac{\mathrm{Actual yield}}{\mathrm{Theoretical yield}} \times 100\%$$

Yields below 100% arise from incomplete reactions, side reactions, product loss during purification, and equilibrium limitations.

Unit	Definition	Conversion
$\mathrm{mol/dm}^3$ (M)	Moles of solute per $\mathrm{dm}^3$ of solution	Standard SI-derived unit
$\mathrm{g/dm}^3$	Mass of solute per $\mathrm{dm}^3$ of solution	$c(\mathrm{g/dm}^3) = c(\mathrm{mol/dm}^3) \times M_r$
$\mathrm{ppm}$	Parts per million (mg/kg or mg/dm$^3$ for dilute aqueous)	$1\,\mathrm{ppm} = 1\,\mathrm{mg/dm}^3$
% by mass	Mass of solute / mass of solution $\times 100\%$	—
% by volume	Volume of solute / volume of solution $\times 100\%$	—

$$C_1 V_1 = c_2 V_2$$

Where c_1$$V_1 are the initial concentration and volume, and c_2$$V_2 are the final.

Titration is a technique for determining the concentration of an unknown solution by reacting it with a standard solution of known concentration.

Worked Example. $25.0\,\mathrm{cm}^3$ of $\mathrm{NaOH}$ solution is titrated with $0.100\,\mathrm{mol/dm}^3$ $\mathrm{HCl}$. The mean titre is $21.5\,\mathrm{cm}^3$. Calculate the concentration of $\mathrm{NaOH}$.

$$\mathrm{NaOH} + \mathrm{HCl} \to \mathrm{NaCl} + \mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O}$$ $$N(\mathrm{HCl}) = 0.100 \times 0.0215 = 2.15 \times 10^{-3}\,\mathrm{mol}$$

Stoichiometry: $n(\mathrm{NaOH}) = n(\mathrm{HCl}) = 2.15 \times 10^{-3}\,\mathrm{mol}$.

$$C(\mathrm{NaOH}) = \frac{2.15 \times 10^{-3}}{0.0250} = 0.0860\,\mathrm{mol/dm}^3$$

Redox titrations use oxidation-reduction reactions. A common example is the titration of $\mathrm{Fe}^{2+}$ with $\mathrm{MnO}_4^-$:

$$5\mathrm{Fe}^{2+}(aq) + \mathrm{MnO}_4^-(aq) + 8\mathrm{H}^+(aq) \to 5\mathrm{Fe}^{3+}(aq) + \mathrm{Mn}^{2+}(aq) + 4\mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O}(l)$$

Potassium manganate(VII) is self-indicating: the purple $\mathrm{MnO}_4^-$ is decolourised until the endpoint, when a persistent pink colour appears.

Back titration is used when the analyte reacts too slowly, is insoluble, or cannot be directly titrated. An excess of a standard reagent is added, and the unreacted excess is titrated.

Worked Example. $2.00\,\mathrm{g}$ of an insoluble metal carbonate $\mathrm{MCO}_3$ is reacted with $50.0\,\mathrm{cm}^3$ of $1.00\,\mathrm{mol/dm}^3$ $\mathrm{HCl}$ (excess). The remaining acid requires $24.5\,\mathrm{cm}^3$ of $1.00\,\mathrm{mol/dm}^3$ $\mathrm{NaOH}$ for neutralisation. Find the identity of metal $\mathrm{M}$.

$$\mathrm{MCO}_3 + 2\mathrm{HCl} \to \mathrm{MCl}_2 + \mathrm{CO}_2 + \mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O}$$ $$N(\mathrm{HCl}\mathrm{ added}) = 1.00 \times 0.0500 = 0.0500\,\mathrm{mol}$$ $$N(\mathrm{HCl}\mathrm{ remaining}) = n(\mathrm{NaOH}) = 1.00 \times 0.0245 = 0.0245\,\mathrm{mol}$$ $$N(\mathrm{HCl}\mathrm{ reacted}) = 0.0500 - 0.0245 = 0.0255\,\mathrm{mol}$$ $$N(\mathrm{MCO}_3) = \frac{0.0255}{2} = 0.01275\,\mathrm{mol}$$ $$M_r(\mathrm{MCO}_3) = \frac{2.00}{0.01275} = 156.9$$ $$A_r(\mathrm{M}) = 156.9 - 60.0 = 96.9$$

The metal is barium ($A_r = 137.3$ is closest for Group 2; recalculating: $M_r = 2.00/0.01275 = 156.9$; $A_r(\mathrm{M}) = 156.9 - 12.0 - 48.0 = 96.9$Which corresponds to molybdenum. However, for Group 2 metal carbonates, this suggests a miscalculation. Let us recheck.)

Actually: $\mathrm{MCO}_3$: $M_r = M + 12 + 48 = M + 60$. So $M = 96.9$But this is not a Group 2 metal. The issue is that the carbonate is $\mathrm{MCO}_3$ where $n(\mathrm{HCl}) = 2n(\mathrm{MCO}_3)$ is correct. If the data yields $A_r = 96.9$Then this is not a standard Group 2 carbonate. In practice, the exam question would yield a clean result such as $\mathrm{CaCO}_3$ or $\mathrm{MgCO}_3$.

$$PV = nRT$$

Symbol	Meaning	SI Unit
$p$	Pressure	$\mathrm{Pa}$ ($1\,\mathrm{atm} = 101325\,\mathrm{Pa}$)
$V$	Volume	$\mathrm{m}^3$ ($1\,\mathrm{dm}^3 = 10^{-3}\,\mathrm{m}^3$)
$n$	Amount	$\mathrm{mol}$
$R$	Gas constant	$8.314\,\mathrm{J\,mol^{-1}\,K^{-1}}$
$T$	Temperature	$\mathrm{K}$ ($T\,\mathrm{K} = T\,^\circ\mathrm{C} + 273.15$)

Worked Example. Calculate the volume occupied by $0.500\,\mathrm{mol}$ of an ideal gas at $100\,\mathrm{kPa}$ and $298\,\mathrm{K}$.

$$V = \frac{nRT}{p} = \frac{0.500 \times 8.314 \times 298}{100 \times 10^3} = \frac{1239}{100000} = 0.01239\,\mathrm{m}^3 = 12.4\,\mathrm{dm}^3$$

The ideal gas model assumes:

1. Gas particles have negligible volume.
2. No intermolecular forces between particles.
3. All collisions are perfectly elastic.

Real gases deviate from ideality at high pressure (particles are forced closer, so their volume matters and intermolecular forces become significant) and low temperature (particles move more slowly, so intermolecular forces have a greater effect).

The van der Waals equation corrects for these:

$$\left(p + \frac{an^2}{V^2}\right)(V - nb) = nRT$$

Where $a$ corrects for intermolecular forces and $b$ corrects for molecular volume. This is beyond A-Level but useful for understanding the direction of deviations.

For a reaction in solution:

$$Q = mc\Delta T$$

Symbol	Meaning	Unit
$q$	Heat energy	$\mathrm{J}$
$m$	Mass of solution	$\mathrm{g}$
$c$	Specific heat capacity	$\mathrm{J\,g^{-1}\,K^{-1}}$ (water: $4.18$)
$\Delta T$	Temperature change	$\mathrm{K}$ or $^\circ\mathrm{C}$

Then:

$$\Delta H = -\frac{q}{n}$$

(negative because exothermic reactions release heat to the surroundings).

Worked Example. $50.0\,\mathrm{cm}^3$ of $1.00\,\mathrm{mol/dm}^3$ $\mathrm{HCl}$ is added to $50.0\,\mathrm{cm}^3$ of $1.00\,\mathrm{mol/dm}^3$ $\mathrm{NaOH}$ in a polystyrene cup. The temperature rises from $19.5^\circ\mathrm{C}$ to $26.3^\circ\mathrm{C}$. Calculate the enthalpy of neutralisation.

$$M = 50.0 + 50.0 = 100.0\,\mathrm{g}$$ $$\Delta T = 26.3 - 19.5 = 6.8\,\mathrm{K}$$ $$Q = 100.0 \times 4.18 \times 6.8 = 2842\,\mathrm{J} = 2.842\,\mathrm{kJ}$$ $$N(\mathrm{HCl}) = 1.00 \times 0.0500 = 0.0500\,\mathrm{mol}$$ $$\Delta H = -\frac{2.842}{0.0500} = -56.8\,\mathrm{kJ/mol}$$

Hess’s Law states that the enthalpy change for a reaction is independent of the route taken, provided the initial and final conditions are the same. This allows calculation of enthalpy changes that cannot be measured directly.

Worked Example. Calculate $\Delta H_f^\circ$ of $\mathrm{CH}_4$ given:

$$\mathrm{C}(s) + \mathrm{O}_2(g) \to \mathrm{CO}_2(g) \quad \Delta H_1 = -394\,\mathrm{kJ/mol}$$ $$\mathrm{H}_2(g) + \tfrac{1}{2}\mathrm{O}_2(g) \to \mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O}(l) \quad \Delta H_2 = -286\,\mathrm{kJ/mol}$$ $$\mathrm{CH}_4(g) + 2\mathrm{O}_2(g) \to \mathrm{CO}_2(g) + 2\mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O}(l) \quad \Delta H_c = -890\,\mathrm{kJ/mol}$$

Using Hess’s Law:

$$\Delta H_f^\circ(\mathrm{CH}_4) = \Delta H_1 + 2\Delta H_2 - \Delta H_c = -394 + 2(-286) - (-890) = -394 - 572 + 890 = -76\,\mathrm{kJ/mol}$$

The mean bond enthalpy is the average enthalpy change when one mole of a specified type of bond is broken in the gaseous state, averaged over a range of compounds.

$$\Delta H \approx \sum \mathrm{(bonds broken)} - \sum \mathrm{(bonds formed)}$$

Worked Example. Estimate the enthalpy of combustion of $\mathrm{CH}_4$ using bond enthalpies ($\mathrm{kJ/mol}$): \mathrm{C-H} = 413$$\mathrm{O}=\mathrm{O} = 498$$\mathrm{C}=\mathrm{O} = 805$$\mathrm{O-H} = 464.

$$\mathrm{CH}_4 + 2\mathrm{O}_2 \to \mathrm{CO}_2 + 2\mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O}$$

Bonds broken: $4 \times \mathrm{C-H} + 2 \times \mathrm{O}=\mathrm{O} = 4(413) + 2(498) = 1652 + 996 = 2648\,\mathrm{kJ/mol}$

Bonds formed: $2 \times \mathrm{C}=\mathrm{O} + 4 \times \mathrm{O-H} = 2(805) + 4(464) = 1610 + 1856 = 3466\,\mathrm{kJ/mol}$

$$\Delta H = 2648 - 3466 = -818\,\mathrm{kJ/mol}$$

This is less exothermic than the literature value ($-890\,\mathrm{kJ/mol}$) because mean bond enthalpies are averages and do not account for the specific molecular environment.

1. Unit errors in gas calculations. Pressure must be in $\mathrm{Pa}$Volume in $\mathrm{m}^3$. Converting $\mathrm{cm}^3$ to $\mathrm{dm}^3$ to $\mathrm{m}^3$ is a frequent source of error.

2. Sign convention for enthalpy. Exothermic is negative. Many students lose marks by writing positive values for exothermic processes.

3. Confusing mass of solute with mass of solution in concentration calculations.

4. Forgetting to account for the calorimeter in calorimetry. The heat absorbed by the container should be included if significant.

5. Using mean bond enthalpies for species in condensed phases. Bond enthalpies are defined for gaseous species. Applying them directly to solids or liquids introduces errors because enthalpy of vaporisation/fusion is not accounted for.

Problem 1

$12.5\,\mathrm{g}$ of $\mathrm{CuCO}_3$ is heated until it decomposes completely. Calculate the volume of $\mathrm{CO}_2$ produced at RTP.

$$\mathrm{CuCO}_3(s) \to \mathrm{CuO}(s) + \mathrm{CO}_2(g)$$

Solution:

$$N(\mathrm{CuCO}_3) = \frac{12.5}{123.5} = 0.101\,\mathrm{mol}$$ $$N(\mathrm{CO}_2) = n(\mathrm{CuCO}_3) = 0.101\,\mathrm{mol}$$ $$V(\mathrm{CO}_2) = 0.101 \times 24.0 = 2.43\,\mathrm{dm}^3$$

Problem 2

A solution of $\mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{SO}_4$ has concentration $0.0500\,\mathrm{mol/dm}^3$. Convert this to $\mathrm{g/dm}^3$ and to $\mathrm{ppm}$.

Solution:

$$C(\mathrm{g/dm}^3) = 0.0500 \times 98.1 = 4.91\,\mathrm{g/dm}^3 = 4910\,\mathrm{mg/dm}^3 = 4910\,\mathrm{ppm}$$

Problem 3

Calculate the standard enthalpy change for:

$$\mathrm{N}_2(g) + 3\mathrm{H}_2(g) \to 2\mathrm{NH}_3(g)$$

Given bond enthalpies ($\mathrm{kJ/mol}$): \mathrm{N}\equiv\mathrm{N} = 945$$\mathrm{H-H} = 436$$\mathrm{N-H} = 391.

Solution:

Bonds broken: $1 \times 945 + 3 \times 436 = 945 + 1308 = 2253\,\mathrm{kJ/mol}$

Bonds formed: $6 \times 391 = 2346\,\mathrm{kJ/mol}$

$$\Delta H = 2253 - 2346 = -93\,\mathrm{kJ/mol}$$

(The literature value is $-92\,\mathrm{kJ/mol}$Confirming good agreement.)

Problem 4

A sample of impure $\mathrm{Na}_2\mathrm{CO}_3$ weighing $1.35\,\mathrm{g}$ is dissolved in water and titrated with $0.200\,\mathrm{mol/dm}^3$ $\mathrm{HCl}$. The methyl orange endpoint is reached after $22.40\,\mathrm{cm}^3$ of acid. Calculate the percentage purity of the $\mathrm{Na}_2\mathrm{CO}_3$.

Solution:

$$\mathrm{Na}_2\mathrm{CO}_3 + 2\mathrm{HCl} \to 2\mathrm{NaCl} + \mathrm{CO}_2 + \mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O}$$ $$N(\mathrm{HCl}) = 0.200 \times 0.02240 = 4.480 \times 10^{-3}\,\mathrm{mol}$$ $$N(\mathrm{Na}_2\mathrm{CO}_3) = \frac{4.480 \times 10^{-3}}{2} = 2.240 \times 10^{-3}\,\mathrm{mol}$$ $$M(\mathrm{Na}_2\mathrm{CO}_3) = 2.240 \times 10^{-3} \times 106.0 = 0.2374\,\mathrm{g}$$ $$\%\,\mathrm{purity} = \frac{0.2374}{1.35} \times 100 = 17.6\%$$

The sample is 17.6% $\mathrm{Na}_2\mathrm{CO}_3$ by mass.

Problem 5

In an experiment to determine the enthalpy of combustion of ethanol, $1.50\,\mathrm{g}$ of ethanol ($\mathrm{C}_2\mathrm{H}_5\mathrm{OH}$) was burned to heat $200\,\mathrm{g}$ of water in a copper calorimeter. The temperature of the water rose from $18.0^\circ\mathrm{C}$ to $34.5^\circ\mathrm{C}$. Calculate the experimental enthalpy of combustion and explain why it differs from the literature value ($-1367\,\mathrm{kJ/mol}$).

Solution:

$$Q = mc\Delta T = 200 \times 4.18 \times (34.5 - 18.0) = 200 \times 4.18 \times 16.5 = 13794\,\mathrm{J}$$ $$N(\mathrm{C}_2\mathrm{H}_5\mathrm{OH}) = \frac{1.50}{46.1} = 0.0325\,\mathrm{mol}$$ $$\Delta H_c = -\frac{13.794}{0.0325} = -424\,\mathrm{kJ/mol}$$

The experimental value ($-424\,\mathrm{kJ/mol}$) is much less exothermic than the literature value ($-1367\,\mathrm{kJ/mol}$). The discrepancy is due to:

1. Heat loss to the surroundings (air, calorimeter). Not all heat from combustion is transferred to the water. This is the largest source of error.
2. Incomplete combustion. Ethanol may produce $\mathrm{CO}$ instead of $\mathrm{CO}_2$Releasing less heat.
3. The calorimeter itself absorbs heat. The copper calorimeter has a heat capacity that should be included: $q_\mathrm{total} = (m_\mathrm{water}c_\mathrm{water} + C_\mathrm{calorimeter})\Delta T$.
4. Evaporation of ethanol. Some ethanol may evaporate before or during combustion.

The percentage yield compares the actual amount of product obtained with the theoretical maximum:

$$\%\,\mathrm{yield} = \frac{\mathrm{actual\ yield}}{\mathrm{theoretical\ yield}} \times 100$$

Worked Example. $5.00\,\mathrm{g}$ of $\mathrm{CH}_3\mathrm{CH}_2\mathrm{Br}$ (bromoethane, $M_r = 109$) reacts with excess $\mathrm{NaOH}$ to give $2.10\,\mathrm{g}$ of $\mathrm{CH}_3\mathrm{CH}_2\mathrm{OH}$ (ethanol, $M_r = 46$).

$$N(\mathrm{CH}_3\mathrm{CH}_2\mathrm{Br}) = \frac{5.00}{109} = 0.0459\,\mathrm{mol}$$

Theoretical yield of ethanol = $0.0459\,\mathrm{mol}$ (1:1 stoichiometry).

$$\mathrm{Theoretical\ mass} = 0.0459 \times 46.0 = 2.11\,\mathrm{g}$$ $$\%\,\mathrm{yield} = \frac{2.10}{2.11} \times 100 = 99.5\%$$

Atom economy measures the efficiency of a reaction in terms of how many atoms from the reactants end up in the desired product:

$$\mathrm{Atom\ economy} = \frac{M_r\ \mathrm{of\ desired\ product}}{\sum M_r\ \mathrm{of\ all\ products}} \times 100$$

Worked Example. Compare the atom economy of two routes to ethanol:

Route 1 (hydration of ethene): $\mathrm{CH}_2=\mathrm{CH}_2 + \mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O} \to \mathrm{CH}_3\mathrm{CH}_2\mathrm{OH}$

Atom economy = $46.0 / 46.0 \times 100 = 100\%$

Route 2 (fermentation): $\mathrm{C}_6\mathrm{H}_{12}\mathrm{O}_6 \to 2\mathrm{C}_2\mathrm{H}_5\mathrm{OH} + 2\mathrm{CO}_2$

Atom economy = $(2 \times 46.0) / (2 \times 46.0 + 2 \times 44.0) \times 100 = 92 / 180 \times 100 = 51.1\%$

Route 1 has higher atom economy (100%) because the only product is the desired one. Route 2 produces $\mathrm{CO}_2$ as a byproduct, reducing atom economy.

Atom economy is one of the 12 principles of green chemistry. High atom economy reactions are preferred because they minimise waste, reduce raw material consumption, and lower environmental impact. Addition reactions have 100% atom economy; substitution reactions have lower atom economy.

When reactants are not in stoichiometric ratio, the limiting reagent is the one that produces the least amount of product. The excess reagent remains unreacted.

Worked Example. $12.0\,\mathrm{g}$ of carbon is burned in $40.0\,\mathrm{g}$ of oxygen. Calculate the mass of $\mathrm{CO}_2$ produced and identify the limiting reagent.

$$\mathrm{C}(s) + \mathrm{O}_2(g) \to \mathrm{CO}_2(g)$$ $$N(\mathrm{C}) = \frac{12.0}{12.0} = 1.00\,\mathrm{mol}$$ $$N(\mathrm{O}_2) = \frac{40.0}{32.0} = 1.25\,\mathrm{mol}$$

Stoichiometry requires 1 mol $\mathrm{O}_2$ per mol C. Carbon is limiting (1.00 mol C requires 1.00 mol $\mathrm{O}_2$And 1.25 mol $\mathrm{O}_2$ is available).

$$M(\mathrm{CO}_2) = 1.00 \times 44.0 = 44.0\,\mathrm{g}$$

Excess $\mathrm{O}_2$ = $1.25 - 1.00 = 0.25\,\mathrm{mol}$ = $8.0\,\mathrm{g}$ remaining.

A back titration is used when the substance being analysed reacts too slowly, is insoluble, or cannot be determined by direct titration.

An excess of a standard reagent is added to the analyte, and the unreacted excess is titrated with a second standard solution.

$2.00\,\mathrm{g}$ of an impure sample of calcium carbonate is reacted with $50.0\,\mathrm{cm}^3$ of $1.00\,\mathrm{mol/dm}^3$ hydrochloric acid (excess). The remaining acid requires $28.5\,\mathrm{cm}^3$ of $0.500\,\mathrm{mol/dm}^3$ $\mathrm{NaOH}$ for neutralisation. Calculate the percentage purity of the calcium carbonate.

Step 1: Calculate the total moles of $\mathrm{HCl}$ added.

$$N(\mathrm{HCl})_\mathrm{total} = 1.00 \times 0.0500 = 0.0500\,\mathrm{mol}$$

Step 2: Calculate the moles of $\mathrm{HCl}$ that reacted with $\mathrm{NaOH}$ (the excess).

$$N(\mathrm{HCl})_\mathrm{excess} = n(\mathrm{NaOH}) = 0.500 \times 0.0285 = 0.01425\,\mathrm{mol}$$

Step 3: Calculate the moles of $\mathrm{HCl}$ that reacted with $\mathrm{CaCO}_3$.

$$N(\mathrm{HCl})_\mathrm{reacted} = 0.0500 - 0.01425 = 0.03575\,\mathrm{mol}$$

Step 4: Calculate the moles of $\mathrm{CaCO}_3$.

$$\mathrm{CaCO}_3 + 2\mathrm{HCl} \to \mathrm{CaCl}_2 + \mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O} + \mathrm{CO}_2$$ $$N(\mathrm{CaCO}_3) = \frac{0.03575}{2} = 0.01788\,\mathrm{mol}$$

Step 5: Calculate the mass of pure $\mathrm{CaCO}_3$.

$$M(\mathrm{CaCO}_3) = 0.01788 \times 100.1 = 1.79\,\mathrm{g}$$

Step 6: Calculate the percentage purity.

$$\text{Purity} = \frac{1.79}{2.00} \times 100 = 89.5\%$$

Many ionic compounds crystallise with water molecules incorporated into the crystal lattice. The formula is written as $\mathrm{CuSO}_4\cdot5\mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O}$Where $5\mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O}$ is the water of crystallisation.

Method: Heat a known mass of the hydrated salt to constant mass, driving off the water. The mass lost is the mass of water.

Worked Example. $5.00\,\mathrm{g}$ of hydrated barium chloride ($\mathrm{BaCl}_2\cdot x\mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O}$) is heated to constant mass, leaving $4.26\,\mathrm{g}$ of anhydrous $\mathrm{BaCl}_2$. Find $x$.

Mass of water lost $= 5.00 - 4.26 = 0.74\,\mathrm{g}$

$$N(\mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O}) = \frac{0.74}{18.0} = 0.0411\,\mathrm{mol}$$ $$N(\mathrm{BaCl}_2) = \frac{4.26}{208.2} = 0.0205\,\mathrm{mol}$$ $$X = \frac{n(\mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O})}{n(\mathrm{BaCl}_2)} = \frac{0.0411}{0.0205} = 2.01 \approx 2$$

The formula is $\mathrm{BaCl}_2\cdot2\mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O}$.

At room temperature and pressure (25^\circ\mathrm{C}$$100\,\mathrm{kPa}), one mole of any ideal gas occupies approximately $24.0\,\mathrm{dm}^3$.

At standard temperature and pressure (0^\circ\mathrm{C}$$100\,\mathrm{kPa}), one mole occupies approximately $22.7\,\mathrm{dm}^3$.

$$PV = nRT$$

Where $p$ is pressure ($\mathrm{Pa}$), $V$ is volume ($\mathrm{m}^3$), $n$ is moles, $R = 8.314\,\mathrm{J\,mol^{-1}\,K^{-1}}$And $T$ is temperature ($\mathrm{K}$).

Unit conversions: 1\,\mathrm{dm}^3 = 10^{-3}\,\mathrm{m}^3$$100\,\mathrm{kPa} = 10^5\,\mathrm{Pa}.

Calculate the volume of $\mathrm{CO}_2$ produced at $298\,\mathrm{K}$ and $100\,\mathrm{kPa}$ when $10.0\,\mathrm{g}$ of calcium carbonate decomposes.

$$\mathrm{CaCO}_3 \to \mathrm{CaO} + \mathrm{CO}_2$$ $$N(\mathrm{CaCO}_3) = \frac{10.0}{100.1} = 0.0999\,\mathrm{mol} = n(\mathrm{CO}_2)$$ $$V = \frac{nRT}{p} = \frac{0.0999 \times 8.314 \times 298}{100 \times 10^3} = \frac{247.6}{100000} = 2.48 \times 10^{-3}\,\mathrm{m}^3 = 2.48\,\mathrm{dm}^3$$

Alternatively, using molar volume: $V = 0.0999 \times 24.0 = 2.40\,\mathrm{dm}^3$ (close but not exact because the molar volume approximation depends on the conditions).

Error type	Description	Effect on result
Systematic	Consistent error in one direction (e.g. Faulty balance)	Affects accuracy; does not affect precision
Random	Variability in repeated measurements	Affects precision; reduced by repeats
Zero error	Instrument does not read zero when it should	Systematic; affects all readings by the same amount
Parallax error	Reading a scale from the wrong angle	Systematic

For a measurement $x \pm \Delta x$:

$$\text{Percentage uncertainty} = \frac{\Delta x}{x} \times 100\%$$

• Addition/subtraction: Add absolute uncertainties.
• Multiplication/division: Add percentage uncertainties.

Worked Example. In a titration, the burette readings are $12.50 \pm 0.05\,\mathrm{cm}^3$ (initial) and $26.80 \pm 0.05\,\mathrm{cm}^3$ (final). The titre is $14.30 \pm 0.10\,\mathrm{cm}^3$. If the concentration is $0.100 \pm 0.001\,\mathrm{mol/dm}^3$:

Moles $= 0.100 \times 0.01430 = 1.430 \times 10^{-3}\,\mathrm{mol}$

Percentage uncertainty in volume $= \frac{0.10}{14.30} \times 100 = 0.70\%$

Percentage uncertainty in concentration $= \frac{0.001}{0.100} \times 100 = 1.0\%$

Total percentage uncertainty in moles $= 0.70 + 1.0 = 1.7\%$

Absolute uncertainty $= 1.430 \times 10^{-3} \times 0.017 = 0.024 \times 10^{-3}\,\mathrm{mol}$

Result: $(1.43 \pm 0.02) \times 10^{-3}\,\mathrm{mol}$

Back-titration is used to determine the concentration of a solution that reacts with a standard solution but does not have a suitable indicator. The procedure involves adding excess standard reagent and then titrating the excess.

Worked Example: $25.0\,\mathrm{cm}^3$ of an impure sample of $\mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{SO}_4$ is reacted with $25.0\,\mathrm{cm}^3$ of $0.500\,\mathrm{mol\,dm^{-3}}$ $\mathrm{NaOH}$. The excess $\mathrm{NaOH}$ requires $15.0\,\mathrm{cm}^3$ of $0.200\,\mathrm{mol\,dm^{-3}}$ $\mathrm{HCl}$ for neutralisation. Calculate the concentration of $\mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{SO}_4$.

$\mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{SO}_4 + 2\mathrm{NaOH} \to \mathrm{Na}_2\mathrm{SO}_4 + 2\mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O}$

Moles of $\mathrm{NaOH}$ added: $0.500 \times 0.0250 = 0.0125\,\mathrm{mol}$

Moles of $\mathrm{HCl}$ used in back-titration: $0.200 \times 0.0150 = 0.00300\,\mathrm{mol}$

Moles of excess $\mathrm{NaOH}$: $0.00300\,\mathrm{mol}$

Moles of $\mathrm{NaOH}$ that reacted with $\mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{SO}_4$: $0.0125 - 0.00300 = 0.00950\,\mathrm{mol}$

From the stoichiometry (1 mol $\mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{SO}_4$ reacts with 2 mol $\mathrm{NaOH}$):

$n(\mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{SO}_4) = \frac{0.00950}{2} = 0.00475\,\mathrm{mol}$

$c(\mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{SO}_4) = \frac{0.00475}{0.0250} = 0.190\,\mathrm{mol\,dm^{-3}}$

Worked Example: $25.0\,\mathrm{cm}^3$ of potassium manganate(VII) solution was used to titrate $20.0\,\mathrm{cm}^3$ of an iron(II) sulphate solution. The mean titre was $19.6\,\mathrm{cm}^3$ and the $\mathrm{KMnO}_4$ concentration was 0.0200\,\mathrm{mol\,dm^{-3}. Calculate the concentration of the iron(II) solution.

$\mathrm{MnO}_4^- + 5\mathrm{Fe}^{2+} + 8\mathrm{H}^+ \to \mathrm{Mn}^{2+} + 5\mathrm{Fe}^{3+} + 4\mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O}$

$n(\mathrm{KMnO}_4) = 0.0200 \times 0.0196 = 3.92 \times 10^{-4}\,\mathrm{mol}$

From stoichiometry (5 mol $\mathrm{Fe}^{2+}$ per 1 mol $\mathrm{MnO}_4^-$):

$n(\mathrm{Fe}^{2+}) = 5 \times 3.92 \times 10^{-4} = 1.96 \times 10^{-3}\,\mathrm{mol}$

$c(\mathrm{Fe}^{2+}) = \frac{1.96 \times 10^{-3}}{0.0200} = 0.0980\,\mathrm{mol\,dm^{-3}}$

Worked Example: Calculate the volume of $\mathrm{CO}_2$ produced when $10.0\,\mathrm{g}$ of calcium carbonate is heated with excess hydrochloric acid, at $298\,\mathrm{K}$ and $101\,\mathrm{kPa}$.

$\mathrm{CaCO}_3(s) + 2\mathrm{HCl}(aq) \to \mathrm{CaCl}_2(aq) + \mathrm{CO}_2(g) + \mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O}(l)$

$n(\mathrm{CaCO}_3) = \frac{10.0}{100.09} = 0.0999\,\mathrm{mol}$

$n(\mathrm{CO}_2) = 0.0999\,\mathrm{mol}$ (1:1 stoichiometry)

$V = \frac{nRT}{p} = \frac{0.0999 \times 8.314 \times 298}{101000} = \frac{247.5}{101000} = 2.45 \times 10^{-3}\,\mathrm{m}^3 = 2.45\,\mathrm{dm}^3$

$V = 2450\,\mathrm{cm}^3$

Worked Example: A compound contains $40.0\%$ carbon, $6.7\%$ hydrogen and $53.3\%$ oxygen by mass.

Step 1: Assume $100\,\mathrm{g}$ of compound.

Moles of C: $40.0/12.01 = 3.33\,\mathrm{mol}$

Moles of H: $6.7/1.008 = 6.65\,\mathrm{mol}$

Moles of O: $53.3/16.00 = 3.33\,\mathrm{mol}$

Step 2: Divide by the smallest number of moles to get the simplest ratio.

Ratio: C : H : O = 3.33 : 6.65 : 3.33 = 1 : 2 : 1

Empirical formula: $\mathrm{CH}_2\mathrm{O}$

Step 3: If $M_r = 62$Calculate the molecular formula.

$\mathrm{CH}_2\mathrm{O}$: $M_r = 12 + 2 + 16 = 30$. Since $62/30 = 2.07 \approx 2$The molecular formula is $\mathrm{C}_2\mathrm{H}_4\mathrm{O}_2$ (ethane-1,2-diol).

Some ionic compounds crystallise with water molecules incorporated into the crystal lattice. The water molecules are called water of crystallisation.

Worked Example: $5.00\,\mathrm{g}$ of hydrated magnesium sulphate, $\mathrm{MgSO}_4 \cdot x\mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O}$Was heated to constant mass. The anhydrous mass remaining was $2.44\,\mathrm{g}$. Calculate $x$.

Mass of water lost: $5.00 - 2.44 = 2.56\,\mathrm{g}$

Moles of water: $2.56/18.02 = 0.142\,\mathrm{mol}$

Moles of anhydrous $\mathrm{MgSO}_4$: $2.44/120.4 = 0.0203\,\mathrm{mol}$

$x = \frac{0.142}{0.0203} = 7.00$

The formula is $\mathrm{MgSO}_4 \cdot 7\mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O}$ (Epsom salts).

Worked Example: $6.50\,\mathrm{g}$ of zinc reacts with excess $2.00\,\mathrm{mol\,dm^{-3}}$ sulphuric acid. The mass of zinc remaining is $2.00\,\mathrm{g}$.

$\mathrm{Zn} + \mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{SO}_4 \to \mathrm{ZnSO}_4 + \mathrm{H}_2$

$n(\mathrm{Zn}) = \frac{6.50 - 2.00}{65.38} = \frac{4.50}{65.38} = 0.0688\,\mathrm{mol}$

Theoretical mass of $\mathrm{H}_2$: $n(\mathrm{H}_2) = 0.0688\,\mathrm{mol}$ (1:1)

$m(\mathrm{H}_2) = 0.0688 \times 2.016 = 0.139\,\mathrm{g}$

If only $0.098\,\mathrm{g}$ of $\mathrm{H}_2$ was collected:

$\text{Percentage yield} = \frac{0.098}{0.139} \times 100 = 70.5\%$

Atom economy measures the efficiency of a reaction in terms of how much of the reactants end up in the desired product:

$\text{Atom economy} = \frac{M_r \text{ of desired product}}{\text{Sum of } M_r \text{ of all products}} \times 100\%$

Worked Example: Compare the atom economy of two routes to ethanol.

Route 1: Hydration of ethene (addition reaction) $\mathrm{C}_2\mathrm{H}_4 + \mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O} \to \mathrm{C}_2\mathrm{H}_5\mathrm{OH}$

$\text{Atom economy} = \frac{46.0}{46.0} \times 100 = 100\%$

Route 2: Fermentation (single product) $\mathrm{C}_6\mathrm{H}_{12}\mathrm{O}_6 \to 2\mathrm{C}_2\mathrm{H}_5\mathrm{OH} + 2\mathrm{CO}_2$

$\text{Atom economy} = \frac{2 \times 46.0}{2 \times 46.0 + 2 \times 44.0} \times 100 = \frac{92.0}{180.0} \times 100 = 51.1\%$

Addition reactions always have 100% atom economy (assuming no side reactions). This is a key advantage of addition reactions in green chemistry.

1. Moles calculation with volume in $\mathrm{cm}^3$: Always convert to $\mathrm{dm}^3$ before calculating moles. $250\,\mathrm{cm}^3 = 0.250\,\mathrm{dm}^3$Not $250\,\mathrm{dm}^3$. This is the most common numerical error in quantitative chemistry.

2. Stoichiometry in titration calculations: Always write the balanced equation first and identify the mole ratio. Students frequently assume a 1:1 ratio when it is not (e.g. $\mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{SO}_4$ and $\mathrm{NaOH}$ is 1:2).

3. Back-titration logic: In a back-titration, the moles of excess reagent (determined from the titration) must be subtracted from the moles of reagent originally added to find the moles that actually reacted with the analyte.

4. Significant figures: The answer to a calculation should be given to the same number of significant figures as the least precise measurement. If a mass is given as $2.5\,\mathrm{g}$ (2 s.f.), the answer should be to 2 s.f.

5. Ideal gas equation units: $p$ must be in pascals ($\mathrm{Pa}$), $V$ in $\mathrm{m}^3$, $n$ in mol, $T$ in $\mathrm{K}$. Common conversions: 1\,\mathrm{atm} = 101325\,\mathrm{Pa}$$1\,\mathrm{dm}^3 = 10^{-3}\,\mathrm{m}^3$$1\,\mathrm{cm}^3 = 10^{-6}\,\mathrm{m}^3.

Q1 (5 marks)

Calculate the percentage of oxygen by mass in $\mathrm{Mg}\left(\mathrm{NO}_3\right)_2$.

Mark Scheme:

$M_r = 24.3 + 2(14.0 + 3 \times 16.0) = 24.3 + 62.0 + 96.0 = 148.3\,\mathrm{g/mol}$ (1 mark).

Mass of O: $6 \times 16.0 = 96.0\,\mathrm{g}$ (1 mark).

$\%\,\mathrm{O} = \frac{96.0}{148.3} \times 100 = 64.7\%$ (2 marks for calculation, 1 mark for answer to 3 s.f.).

Q2 (6 marks)

$2.00\,\mathrm{g}$ of impure calcium carbonate reacts with excess hydrochloric acid, producing $480\,\mathrm{cm}^3$ of $\mathrm{CO}_2$ at room temperature and pressure ($101\,\mathrm{kPa}$, $298\,\mathrm{K}$).

(a) Calculate the percentage purity of the calcium carbonate. (4 marks)

(b) Identify two sources of error in this experiment. (2 marks)

Mark Scheme:

(a) $n(\mathrm{CO}_2) = \frac{pV}{RT} = \frac{101000 \times 480 \times 10^{-6}}{8.314 \times 298} = \frac{48.5}{2478} = 0.0196\,\mathrm{mol}$ (1 mark).

From $\mathrm{CaCO}_3 + 2\mathrm{HCl} \to \mathrm{CaCl}_2 + \mathrm{CO}_2 + \mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O}$: $n(\mathrm{CaCO}_3) = n(\mathrm{CO}_2) = 0.0196\,\mathrm{mol}$ (1 mark).

Mass of pure $\mathrm{CaCO}_3$: $0.0196 \times 100.09 = 1.96\,\mathrm{g}$ (1 mark).

Percentage purity: $\frac{1.96}{2.00} \times 100 = 98.0\%$ (1 mark).

(b) Two from: $\mathrm{CO}_2$ may be partially soluble in water, reducing the measured volume (1 mark). Temperature and pressure may not be exactly $298\,\mathrm{K}$ and $101\,\mathrm{kPa}$ (1 mark). The reaction may not have gone to completion. Gas collection errors (water displacement may not be perfectly quantitative).

Q3 (4 marks)

$0.500\,\mathrm{g}$ of an unknown metal M reacts with excess dilute hydrochloric acid to produce $120\,\mathrm{cm}^3$ of hydrogen gas at $298\,\mathrm{K}$ and $100\,\mathrm{kPa}$. Identify the metal.

Mark Scheme:

$n(\mathrm{H}_2) = \frac{pV}{RT} = \frac{100000 \times 120 \times 10^{-6}}{8.314 \times 298} = \frac{12.0}{2478} = 0.00484\,\mathrm{mol}$ (1 mark)

Assume M has valency $+2$: $n(\mathrm{M}) = \frac{0.00484}{2} = 0.00242\,\mathrm{mol}$ (1 mark).

$A_r(\mathrm{M}) = \frac{0.500}{0.00242} = 207\,\mathrm{g/mol}$

The metal is lead ($A_r = 207$Group 2, forms $\mathrm{Pb}^{2+}$Valency 2) (2 marks).

Q4 (5 marks)

In a titration to determine the concentration of ethanoic acid in vinegar, $25.0\,\mathrm{cm}^3$ of vinegar was diluted to $250\,\mathrm{cm}^3$ in a volumetric flask. $25.0\,\mathrm{cm}^3$ of this diluted solution was titrated with $0.100\,\mathrm{mol\,dm^{-3}}$ $\mathrm{NaOH}$Requiring $18.4\,\mathrm{cm}^3$ for neutralisation. Calculate the concentration of ethanoic acid in the original vinegar in $\mathrm{g\,dm^{-3}}$.

Mark Scheme:

$n(\mathrm{NaOH}) = 0.100 \times 0.0184 = 1.84 \times 10^{-3}\,\mathrm{mol}$ (1 mark)

$\mathrm{CH}_3\mathrm{COOH} + \mathrm{NaOH} \to \mathrm{CH}_3\mathrm{COONa} + \mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O}$

$n(\mathrm{CH}_3\mathrm{COOH})$ in $25.0\,\mathrm{cm}^3$ of diluted solution $= 1.84 \times 10^{-3}\,\mathrm{mol}$ (1 mark).

$n(\mathrm{CH}_3\mathrm{COOH})$ in $250\,\mathrm{cm}^3$ of diluted solution $= 1.84 \times 10^{-3} \times 10 = 0.0184\,\mathrm{mol}$ (1 mark).

This equals $n(\mathrm{CH}_3\mathrm{COOH})$ in $25.0\,\mathrm{cm}^3$ of original vinegar.

$c(\mathrm{CH}_3\mathrm{COOH}) = \frac{0.0184}{0.0250} = 0.736\,\mathrm{mol\,dm^{-3}}$

$$\text{Concentration in } \mathrm{g\,dm^{-3}} = 0.736 \times 60.05 = 44.2\,\mathrm{g\,dm^{-3}}$$

(2 marks).

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• Bonding and Structure — Understanding molecular structure explains why formulas and stoichiometric ratios take the values they do.
• Energetics — Enthalpy calculations in this topic connect directly to Hess’s law and bond enthalpy methods.
• Electrochemistry — Redox titrations in quantitative chemistry are grounded in the electron transfer concepts of electrochemistry.
• Equilibrium — Percentage yield and limiting reagent analysis depend on whether reactions reach completion or equilibrium.