Science Lab Experiment: Neutralization
Demonstration: Neutralization
Object: To determine the characteristics of an acid-base reaction.
Materials: titration apparatus, indicator solution, small beaker,
alcohol lamp, litmus paper, boileezer, funnel,
HCl (3M), NaOH (3M), distilling flask
Diagram:
Method: Equal concentrations of NaOH and HCl were poured into the
titration tubes. A quantity of HCl was released into a small
beaker containing a drop of indicator. Gradually, drop by drop,
NaOH was added to the acid, until a light pink colour was noticed.
This solution was then tested with litmus paper and distilled.
Observations: As the base was added, the solution would turn pink
and then clear until the concentration of base equaled
that of the acid. The solution was tested with litmus
paper and no change was seen. As the solution was heated,
drops of a clear liquid were collected from the spout of
the flask. The bottom of the flask contained a white precipitate,
which tasted salty.
Conclusions: The base neutralized the acid, resulting in the formation of a salt and water.
NaOH + HCl -> NaCl + H2O
Base Acid Salt Water