Introduction to Conductometry in Pharmaceutical Analysis
- S-1-PHARMACEUTICAL-ANALYSIS
- Feb 26
- 2 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Conductometry is a significant analytical technique used in various fields, including pharmaceutical analysis, to measure the electrical conductivity of a solution.
This measurement is indicative of the presence and concentration of ions in the solution, which is essential for understanding many aspects of a solution's composition and properties.
Here's an introduction to conductometry, focusing on its application in pharmaceutical analysis
Fundamentals of Conductometry
1) Electrical Conductivity
It's the ability of a substance to conduct electric current, which in solutions, is due to the movement of ions.
Conductivity is inversely related to resistance.
2) Conductance (G)
The ease with which the electric current flows.
It's the reciprocal of resistance.
3) Cell Constant (k)
It's specific to the conductometric cell used and is a factor of the electrode's size and distance apart.
Measurement
1) Conductometric Cell
A typical setup involves a pair of electrodes immersed in the solution whose conductivity is to be measured.
2) AC Current
Alternating current is used to prevent electrolysis at the electrodes, which could affect the measurements.
Advantages in Pharmaceutical Analysi
Sensitivity: Conductometry is sensitive to changes in ionic concentration, making it useful for detecting even small amounts of ionic impurities.
Non-Destructive: It doesn't alter the sample, allowing for further analysis if needed.
Rapid and Easy: Conductometric measurements are typically quick and don't require complex procedures.
Applications of Conductometry
1) Pharmaceutical analysis:
Determines the concentration of active ingredients, impurities, and degradation products in drug formulations.
Useful for monitoring solid dosage dissolution and analyzing electrolytes in intravenous solutions.
2) Water quality monitoring
Measures total dissolved solids (TDS), water hardness, salinity, and concentrations of anions and cations in water samples.
3) Environmental analysis
Assesses pollutant concentrations (e.g., heavy metals, organic compounds) in air, water, and soil.
Used to monitor chemical reactions in industrial processes. Top of Form Bottom of Form
