Final answer:
Thiol neutralization's first function is the stoichiometric calculation to determine acid and conjugate base amounts after the reaction, setting the stage for the equilibrium calculation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first function of thiol neutralization in chemistry is the stoichiometric calculation where the amounts of acid and conjugate base that are present in the solution after the neutralization reaction has occurred are determined. This stoichiometric step is essential as it lays the foundation for the subsequent equilibrium calculation, which involves using the equilibrium equation to determine the concentration of hydrogen ions ([H+]) in the resulting solution. Thiol neutralization reactions often involve thiolate ions, which are good nucleophiles for SN2 reactions and can also participate in acid-base neutralization reactions with substances such as sodium hydroxide (NaOH), where the sodium ion is a spectator ion.