Curricular Competency Explanation

A titration is a lab technique used to determine the concentration of a substance in a solution. In this lab, we used titrations to find out how much base was needed to neutralize an acid, which was HCl in our lab. To do this, we added a few drops of phenolphthalein, to the acid. The goal was to reach a very light pink colour, that shows for about 30 seconds. We knew the endpoint was close then the pink colour started to last longer. This Is when we started to use the technique of single and half drops, leading us with a more accurate result. After getting a good titration we calculated the Molarity of HCl, which was 0.136M, with an uncertainty of 0.7%. 

Core Competency Reflection

I demonstrated communication skills with my partner throughout Lab 20c. We worked together to decide which step each of us would take, and we also discussed where we needed help from one another. A great example I can think of is, when it came to getting the pipette accuracy just right, we agreed that I should do that part of the lab, since I found it easier. While my partner was better at achieving accuracy when it came to the single and half drops. Because of our clear communication, we were able to complete two titrations with an average difference of only 0.01%. Another example, was when determining whether the titration had reached the correct colour. It was really enjoyable watching the bright pink colour change into a faint pink. We both felt a sense of accomplishment when the titration reached the perfect faint pink. Communication was a big factor with each other, that made this lab achievable and accurate.