Chemistry 12 · Chemistry · Lesson 5.3
Acid-base titrations
- Level
- Grade 12
- Reading time
- 12 min reading
- Review
- Last reviewed 2026-09-03
- Standard
- Accuracy standard
- Errata
Abstract
Finding a concentration by neutralization.
What is a titration?
Short answer
A titration is a technique for finding an unknown concentration by reacting a solution with a standard solution of known concentration. Titrant is added until the reaction is just complete at the equivalence point, signalled by an indicator colour change. Using the volume added and the balanced equation, you calculate the unknown concentration by stoichiometry.
Concept preview
What you will be able to do
- 01Describe a titration and the equivalence point
- 02Calculate an unknown concentration for a 1:1 titration
- 03Handle titrations with a mole ratio other than 1:1
A titration is a precise laboratory technique for finding an unknown concentration. You slowly add a solution of accurately known concentration — called the standard solution or titrant — to a measured volume of the unknown, until the reaction between them is exactly complete. Because the standard's concentration and the volumes are all measured, the unknown concentration can be calculated from the stoichiometry of the reaction.
School Plan
Acid-base titrations
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Related topics
Frequently asked questions
- What is the equivalence point?
- The point where the added titrant has exactly reacted with all of the substance being measured, per the balanced equation.
- What does an indicator do in a titration?
- It changes colour near the equivalence point to signal when to stop adding titrant.