Conductometric titrations involve the gradual addition of a titrant (a solution of known concentration) to an analyte (a solution of unknown concentration) while continuously monitoring the conductivity of the mixture.
The titration curve, which plots conductivity as a function of titrant volume, shows characteristic changes that reflect the reaction between the analyte and the titrant.
This allows for determining the end-point of the titration and calculating the concentration of the analyte.
Types of Conductometric Titrations:
Acid-Base Titrations
Involves the neutralization of an acid by a base (or vice versa).
The change in the number of ions in the solution, along with their mobility, results in a change in conductivity.
Precipitation Titrations
Occurs when a precipitate forms as the titrant reacts with the analyte.
The formation of a precipitate reduces the number of free ions in the solution, which decreases conductivity.
Redox Titrations
Involves reactions between reducing and oxidizing agents.
The conductivity changes as the redox-active species are converted to different ionic forms.
Complexometric Titrations
These titrations involve the formation of a complex between the analyte and the titrant.
This reaction results in a change in the concentration of free ions in the solution, leading to a corresponding change in conductivity.