Question

In a titration of HCl against NH3OH, conductivity had increased in a linear fashion (think y=x), and before it approached the equivalence point, there was approximately 0.8mL of 'plateau'. Before logging (based on 'event' - mL of HCl titrated), I had ensured that the values were not fluctuating significantly for at least 10 seconds; the plateau appeared across 7 titrations. I can't find any literature which provides reason for this.

Answer 1

In a titration of HCl against NH3OH, the conductivity increases in a linear fashion before the equivalence point. The plateau before the equivalence point occurs because the solution contains an excess of the strong acid or base. The exact reason for the plateau in this specific titration is not mentioned in the given information.

Step-by-step explanation:

In a titration, the conductivity of the solution can be measured to determine the equivalence point, where the moles of acid and base are equal. The curve of conductivity vs. volume of titrant added is called a titration curve. Before the equivalence point, the conductivity typically increases in a linear fashion. After the equivalence point, the conductivity levels off or plateaus.

The reason for the plateau before the equivalence point in the titration of HCl against NH3OH is not provided in the given information. However, in typical strong acid-strong base titrations, the plateau is observed because at this stage, the solution contains an excess of the strong acid or base, and therefore, further addition of titrant does not significantly change conductivity.