Equivalence point

Definition

The equivalence point in a titration is when the amount of titrant added is exactly enough to neutralize the analyte solution. It is the point at which stoichiometrically equivalent quantities of reactants have been mixed.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. At the equivalence point, the number of moles of titrant equals the number of moles of analyte based on their reaction stoichiometry.
2. Indicators or pH meters are often used to detect the equivalence point in acid-base titrations.
3. For strong acid-strong base titrations, the pH at the equivalence point is typically around 7.
4. In a titration curve, the equivalence point corresponds to the steepest part of the curve where there is a sudden change in pH.
5. The volume of titrant added to reach the equivalence point can be used to calculate unknown concentrations using stoichiometric relationships.

Review Questions

• What does it mean when a solution reaches its equivalence point?
• How can you determine the equivalence point during a titration?
• What happens to pH levels at the equivalence point in a strong acid-strong base titration?

Related terms

Titrant: A solution of known concentration that is added to another solution to determine its concentration.

Analyte:

The substance whose concentration is being measured in a titration.

Indicator: \text{A chemical that changes color at (or near) the equivalence point during a titration.}