CHE 401 : ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY

MODULE
1
INTRODUCTION TO ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY

INTRODUCTION
This module gives an introductory overview analytical chemistry and the techniques used in
analysis. It provides understanding of the fundamental principles of chemical analysis and its role
in many research areas in chemistry, biology, medicine, geology, engineering and other related
sciences. The way how quantitative analysis was done and the extent of its application is being
discussed in this module. To develop good analytical practice, the tools, techniques and chemicals
that are used in the analyses are introduced to the students.

INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES

At the end of the module, the following learning outcomes are expected to be acquired by the
students:
1. Understand the concepts and be familiar with the steps and techniques employed in
gravimetric and volumetric method of analysis.
2. Acquire skills in laboratory technique required to perform and plan chemical analysis and
systematically collect and interpret data obtained in quantitative analytical process.

CONTENT OVERVIEW
Indicative contents included the following topics:
1. Nature and role of analytical chemistry
2. Main division of analytical chemistry
3. Quantitative chemical method and analysis
4. Tools of analytical chemistry
4.1 Chemicals, apparatus and unit operations used in analytical chemistry
4.2 Using spreadsheet in analytical chemistry
4.3 Errors in chemical analyses

END OF THE MODULE TEST

The following are the assessment provided to evaluate students level of understanding after the
discussion of the modules:

Coursework (10 pts each)

1. Tools in analytical chemistry
2. Treatment of Data using Spreadsheet

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CHE 401 : ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY

Table of Contents
MODULE 1. INTRODUCTION TO ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY .......................................... 3
1.1 NATURE OF ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY................................................................. 3
1.2 MAIN DIVISIONS OF ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY ................................................. 5
1.2.1 Qualitative analysis. .................................................................................................. 5
1.2.2 Qualitative analysis. .................................................................................................. 5
1.3 QUANTITATIVE METHOD OF ANALYSIS ............................................................... 6
1.3.1 Overview of the nine steps of quantitative analysis .................................................. 6
1.4 TOOLS OF ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY .................................................................. 10
1.4.1 Chemical, apparatus and operations of analytical chemistry. ................................. 10
1.4.2 Using spreadsheet in analytical chemistry .............................................................. 21
1.4.3 Errors in chemical analysis ........................................................................................ 23
1.5 END OF MODULE TEST ............................................................................................. 28

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CHE 401 : ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY

MODULE 1. INTRODUCTION TO ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY

1.1 NATURE OF ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY

Analytical chemistry is a measurement science which deals with the separation, identification and
determination of the components of the sample. It plays a vital role in the development of science.
In 1894, Friedrich Wilhelm Ostwald wrote:

“Analytical chemistry, or art of recognizing different substances and determining their

constituents, takes a prominent position among the applications of science, since the questions
which it enables us to answer arise whenever chemical processes are employed for scientific or
technical purposes”.

Thus, analytical chemistry is so called a measurement science which consist of a set of

powerful ideas and methods useful in the fields of science, medicine and engineering. It is applied
throughout the industry, medicines and all sciences. The following are few examples of the
application of analytical chemistry:

1. Determination of the concentration of O2 and CO2 in millions of blood samples which are
vital in the diagnose and treat illnesses.
2. Gas emission test for the analysis of hydrocarbons, NOX’s and CO present in automobile
exhaust gases to evaluate the effectiveness of the smog-control devices
3. Quantitative measurement of nitrogen present in foods to measure the protein content and
nutritional value of food.
4. Determination of ionized calcium in blood serum to diagnose parathyroid disease in
humans.
5. Analysis of steel during its production permits adjustments in the concentration of such
elements as carbon, nickel and chromium to achieve a desired strength, hardness,
corrosion resistance and ductility of material.
6. Farmer tailor fertilization and irrigation schedules to meet changing plant needs during the
growing season, gauging these needs from quantitative analyses of the plants and the soil
for which they grow.
7. Performing immunoassay in determining antibodies or antibody related reagents in
formulating medicine for COVID-19 virus.
8. Measurement of antigen present in the body by performing polymerace chain reaction
(PCR) test to detect the presence of COVID-19 virus.
9. Quantitative measurement of potassium, calcium and sodium ions in the body fluids of
animals permits physiologist to study the role of these ions in nerves signal conduction as
well as muscle contraction and relaxation.

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10. Chemist unravels the mechanism of chemical reactions through reaction rates studies. The rate of
consumption of reactant of formation of products in chemical reactions can be calculated from
quantitative measurements made at equal time intervals.

11. Material scientists rely heavily on quantitative analysis of crystalline germanium and silicon on
their studies of semiconductor devices. Impurities on these devices are on a concentration range of
1. 0x 10-6 to 1 x 10-9 percent.

12. Archaeologist identifies the source of volcanic glasses (obsidian) by measuring concentration of
minor elements in samples taken from various locations. This knowledge in turn makes it possible
to trace prehistoric trade routes for tools and weapons fashioned by obsidian.

The relationship of analytical chemistry with respect to many other scientific fields are shown in
Fig. 1.1. Chemistry is located on its top-center position, hence so called the central science which
signifies its importance and the breadth of its interaction with many other disciplines. The
interdisciplinary measure of chemical analysis makes it a vital tool in medical, industrial,
government and academic laboratories throughout the world.

Fig. 1.1 The relationship of analytical chemistry with respect to many other scientific fields
(Skoog et al., 2014)

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1.2 MAIN DIVISIONS OF ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY

Analytical chemistry can be divide into two general areas of analysis.

1.2.1 Qualitative analysis.

It reveals the identity of the elements and compounds in the sample. It attempts to identify what
material are present in a sample. The test involved are the following:
a. Solubility test- used to see if solid dissolves in the solvent
b. Precipitation test - used to see if solid formed when two dissolved substances mixed.
c. pH test - determine the concentration of dissolved [H+] ions.
d. Flame test - used to see what color is formed when the substance is burned.

1.2.2 Qualitative analysis.

Indicate the amount of substance in the sample. It determines how much of the material is present
in the sample. It is classified into five categories:
a. Complete or Ultimate Analysis – the amount of all constituents in the sample were
determined.
a. Partial Analysis – only few constituents are determined
b. Elemental/Molecular Analysis – refer to the determination of the amount of element
and molecules.
c. Major constituent/Macro Analysis -implies that constituent is in high concentration
d. Trace Analysis – constituent to be determine are in low concentration.

Fig. 1.2 Types of analysis in a sample size

Fig. 1.3 Types of constituents and analyte level

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1.3 QUANTITATIVE METHOD OF ANALYSIS

A typical quantitative analysis was first come from mass or the volume measurement of sample
being analysed. The second is the measurement of some quantity that is proportional to the amount
of an analyte in the sample such as mass, volume, intensity of light or electrical charge. This second
measurement usually completes the analysis and analytical methods were classified according to
final measurement. Shown in Table 1.1 the methods used in quantitative analysis.

Table 1.1 Quantitative Methods of Chemical Analyses

Quantitative method Description
Gravimetry It uses the mass of the analyte or some compound related to it.

It is also called “Titrimetry” which measures the volume of the solution

Volumetry
containing sufficient reagent to react completely with the analyte.
It involves the measurement of such electrical properties as potential,
Electroanalytical
current, resistance and quantity of electrical charge.
This was based on measurement of the interaction between
Spectroscopic electromagnetic radiation or analyte atoms or molecules or on the
production of such radiation by analyte.
Measurements of such quantities as mass to ratio charge of molecules by
Miscellaneous groups of
mass spectrometry, rate of radioactive decay, heat of reaction, sample
method
thermal conductivity, optical activity and refractive index.
Note: Analyte is the component of the sample that are to be determined.

1.3.1 Overview of the nine steps of quantitative analysis

A typical quantitative analysis involves sequence of steps such are the following:

1. Choosing a Method.
The essential first step in any quantitative analysis is a selection of a method. The choice is
sometimes difficult and requires experience as well as intuition. One of the first questions to
be considered in the selection process is the level of accuracy required. Unfortunately, high
reliability nearly always requires a large investment of time. The selected method usually
represents a compromise between the accuracy required and the time and money available for
the analysis.

The second consideration related to the economic factor is the number of samples to be
analyzed. If there are many samples, we can afford to spend a significant amount of time in
preliminary operations such as assembling and calibrating instrument and equipment and
preparing standard solutions. If there is only single sample, or just few samples it may be
appropriate to select a procedure that avoids or minimizes such preliminary steps. Finally, the
complexity of the sample and the number of components in the samplealways influence the
choice of method to some degree.

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2. Acquiring the Sample.

To produce meaningful information, an analysis must be performed on the sample that has the
same composition as the bulk of material from which it was taken. When the bulk is large and
heterogeneous, great effort is required to get a representative sample. A material is
heterogeneous if its constituent parts can be distinguished visually or with the aid of the
microscope like coal, animal tissue and soil. The assay will be performed on a sample that
weighs about one gram.

An assay is a process of determining how much of a given sample is the material

indicated by its name.

Sampling, collecting a small mass of material whose composition accurately represents the
bulk of the material being sampled, is done. Whether sampling is simpler or complex, however
the analyst must be sure that the laboratory sample is the representative of the whole before
proceeding with an analysis.

3. Processing the sample.

Under most circumstances, the sample must be process in any of a variety of different ways.

Preparing laboratory samples

A solid laboratory sample is ground to decrease particle size, mixed to ensure homogeneity
and stored for various lengths of time before analysis begins. Absorption or desorption of
water many occur during each step, depending on the humidity of the environment.
Because any loss or gain of water changes the chemical composition of solids, it is good
idea to dry the samples just before starting an analysis. For liquid sample, if it’s allowed to
stand in an open container, the solvent many evaporate and change the concentration of the
analyte. If the analyte is a gas dissolved in a liquid, the sample container must be kept
inside a second sealed container perhaps during entire analytical procedure to prevent
contamination by atmospheric gases. Extraordinary measure including the sample
manipulation and measurement in an inert atmosphere many be required to preserve the
integrity of the sample.

Defining replicate sample.

Replication improves the quality of the results and provides a measure of reliability.
Replicate samples or replicates are portion of the material of approximately the same size
that are carried through an analytical procedure at the same time and in the same way.
Quantitative measurements on replicates are usually averaged and various statistical tests
are performed on the results to establish reliability.

Preparing solutions.
Most analyses are performed in solutions of a sample made with a suitable solvent. Ideally,
the solvent should dissolve the entire sample including the analyte rapidly and completely.
The conditions of solutions should be sufficiently mild so that loss of analyte cannot occur.
The sample many require heating with aqueous solution of strong acids, strong base,
oxidizing agents, reducing agents or some combinations of such reagents. It may be

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necessary to ignite the sample in air or oxygen or require a high temperature fusion of
sample in the presence of various fluxes. Once the analyte is made soluble, ask whether
the sample has a property that is proportional to analyte concentration and that we can
measure.

4. Eliminating Interference.
Species other than analyte that affect the final measurement are called interference or
interferents causing an error in an analysis by enhancing or attenuating the quantity being
measured. No hard and fast rules can be given for eliminating interference; indeed
resolution of this problem can be the most demanding aspect of an analysis.

5. Calibrating and Measuring Concentrations.

All analytical results depend on final measurement X of the physical or chemical property
of the analyte. This property must vary in a known or reproducible any with the
concentration CA of the analyte. Ideally, the measurement of the property is directly
proportional to the concentration.

That is, CA = f(X) or CA = kX

where k is the proportionality constant. With two exceptions, analytical methods require
the empirical determination of k with chemical standards for which CA is known. The
process of determining k is thus an important step in most analyses; this step is called
calibration.

6. Calculating results.
These computations are based on raw experimental data collected in the measurement step,
the characteristics of the measurements instruments and the stoichiometry of the analytical
reactions.

7. Evaluating result by estimating their reliability.

Analytical results are incomplete without an estimate of their reliability. The experimenter
must provide some measure of the uncertainties associated with computed results if the
data are to have any value

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Select Method

Acquire Sample

Process Sample

No Carry out chemical

Is Sample
soluble? dissolution

Yes

Change No
Measurable
chemical form property?

Yes

Eliminate
Interference

Measure property
X

Calculate Results

Eliminate
Reliability of Results

Fig 1.4. Flow diagram showing the steps in Quantitative Analysis

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1.4 TOOLS OF ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY

1.4.1 Chemical, apparatus and operations of analytical chemistry.

At the heart of analytical chemistry is a core set of operations and equipment that is necessary for
laboratory work in the discipline and that serves as a foundation for its growth and development.
The purity of reagents has an important bearing on the accuracy attained in any analysis. It is
therefore essential that the quality of the reagent be consistent with its intended use.

Chemical classification

Reagent-Grade
Chemicals conform to the minimum standard set forth by the Reagent Chemical Committee
of the American Chemical Society (ACS) and is used wherever possible in analytical work.

Primary-Standard Grade.
Primary standard grade reagents have been carefully analyzed by the supplier and the assay
is printed on the container label. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
formerly National Bureau of Standards is an excellent source of primary standards. This
agency also provides reference standards, which are complex substances that have been
exhaustively analyzed.

Special Purpose Reagent Chemicals.

Chemicals that have been prepared for specific applications are also available. Included
among these are solvents for spectrophotometry and high performance liquid
chromatography. Data provided with a spectrophotometric solvent might include its
absorbance at selected wavelengths and its ultraviolet cutoff wavelength.

Important Requirements of Primary Standard

1. High purity
2. Atmospheric stability
3. Absence of hydrate water so that the compound of the solid does not change in
variation and humidity
4. Modest cost
5. Reasonable solubility in the titration medium
6. Reasonably large molar mass so that the relative error associated with weighing
the standard is minimize.

Secondary Standard-grade
These are compound whose purity has been established by chemical analysis and serves as
reference material for titrimetric methods of analysis.

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Rules for handling reagents and solutions

The following rules should be considered to prevent the accidental contamination of reagents and
solutions.
1. Select the best grade of chemical available for analytical work. Whenever possible, pick
the smallest bottle that will supply the desired quantity.
2. Replace the top of every container immediately after removal of the reagents; do not rely
on someone else to do this.
3. Hold the stoppers of reagents between your finers; never set a stopper on a desk top.
4. Unless specifically directed otherwise, never return any excess reagent to a bottle. The
money saved by returning excesses is seldom worth the risk of contaminating the entire
bottle.
5. Unless directed otherwise, never insert spatulas, spoons, or knives into a bottle that
contains a solid chemical. Instead, shake the capped bottle vigorously or tap it gently
against a wooden table to break up an encrustation; then pour out the desired quantity.
These are ocassionaly ineffective, and in such cases a clean porcelain spoon should be
used.
6. Keep the reagent shelf and the laboratory balance clean and neat. Clean up any spills
immediately, even though someone else is waiting to use the same chemical or reagent.
7. Observe local regulations concerning the disposal of surplus reagents and solutions.

Cleaning and marking of laboratory ware.

A chemical analysis is ordinarily performed in duplicate or triplicate. Thus, each vessel that holds
a sample must be marked so that its contents can be positively identified.

1. Flasks, beakers and some crucibles have

small etched areas on which semi- Etched area
permanent markings can be made with a
pencil.
2. Special marking inks are available for
porcelain surfaces. The marking is
baked permanently into the glaze by
heating at a high temperature. A
saturated solution of iron (III)
chloride can also be use in the
laboratory for marking. (a) b)
3. An organic solvent, such as benzene or
acetone, may be effective in removing Fig 1.5 (a) E-flask with etched area for
grease. marking (b) saturated solution of FeCl3

Evaporating liquids
Evaporation is frequently difficult to control because of the tendency of some solutions to overheat
locally. Careful and gentle heating will be done to minimize the danger bumping that can cause
partial loss of solution. Glass beads are used to minimize bumping.

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During evaporation, some unwanted species can be eliminated like :

1. Chloride and nitrate can be removed from a solution by

adding sulphuric acid and evaporating until copious
white fumes of sulphur trioxide are observed.
2. Urea is effective in removing nitrate ion and nitrogen
oxides from acidic solutions.
3. Ammonium chloride is best removed by adding
concentrated nitric acid and evaporating the solution to a
small volume.
4. Ammonium ion is rapidly oxidized when it is heated; the Fig. 1.6 Arrangement for the
solution is then evaporated to dryness. evaporation of liquid

Organic constituents can frequently be eliminated from a solution by wet ashing.

Wet ashing is a process of adding sulphuric acid and heating to the appearance of sulphur trioxide
fumes. Nitric acid can be added toward the end of heating to hasten oxidation of the last traces of
organic matter.

Measuring Mass
The instrument used in measuring the mass with a maximum
capacity that ranges from 1 gram to a few kilograms with a
precision of at least 1 part in 105 up to 106 at full capacity is
analytical balance shown in Figure 1.7.

It is a delicate instrument that you must handle with care. You

must consult with your instructor for detailed instructions on
weighing with your particular model of balance. Observe the
following rules for working with an analytical balance regardless
of make or model:
Fig. 1.7 Analytical Balance
Precautions on using a balance
1. Center the load on the pan as well as possible.
2. Protect the balance from corrosion. Objects to be placed on the pan should be limited to
non reactive metals, non reactive plastics and vitreous materials.
3. Consult the instructor if the balance appears to need adjustment.
4. Keep the balance and its case scrupulously clean. A camel’s – hair brush is useful for
removing spilled material or dust.
5. Always allow an object that has been heated to return to room temperature before
weighing it.
6. Use tongs or finger pads to prevent the uptake of moisture by dried objects.

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Table 1.2 Types of Analytical Balance

Analytical Balance Capacity/Operation Precision
1. Macrobalances 160 – 200 grams ±0.1 mg
2. Semi-microanalytical 10 – 30 grams ±0.01 mg
3. Micro-analytical 1 – 3 grams ± 0. 001mg or 1 μg
4. Equal arm balance Up to 2000 grams 1 gram sensitivity
5. Single pan analytical balance Usually 110-160 grams ±0.1 mg
6. Electronic analytical balance Usually 100 – 600 grams 0.1 mg – 0.001 mg
7. Auxilliary balances
Top loading 150 – 200 grams ±1 mg
Up to 25,000 grams ±0.05 gram.

Triple beam 2610 gram 0.1 gram

Sources of error in weighing

1. Bouyancy
It is a weighing error that develops when the objects being weighed has a significantly different
density than the masses. Buoyancy correction for electronic balances may be accomplished by the
equation

𝑑 𝑑
𝑊1 = 𝑊2 + 𝑊2 [𝑑𝑎𝑖𝑟 − 𝑑 𝑎𝑖𝑟 ] (1.1)
𝑜𝑏𝑗 𝑤𝑡𝑠

where 𝑾𝟏 is the corrected mass of the object, 𝑾𝟐 is the mass of the standard masses, 𝒅𝒐𝒃𝒋 is the
density of the object, 𝒅𝒘𝒕𝒔 is the density of the masses, and 𝒅𝒂𝒊𝒓 is the density of the air displaced
by them; 𝒅𝒂𝒊𝒓 has a value of 0.0012 g/𝒄𝒎𝟑 .

Fig. 1.8 Plot of the Relative error against the density of object (d wts=8g/cm3)

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2. Temperature
When temperature of the object is different from that of its surroundings will result in a significant
error. To minimize the error, a sufficient time for a heated object to return to room temperature
necessary. Two sources of error due to temperature are
a. Convection currents within the balance case exert a buoyant effect on the pan and object
b. Warm air trapped in a closed container weighs less than the same volume at a lower
temperature.
A lower mass of object will be encountered in both errors and account as much as 10 or 15 mg for
a typical porcelain filtering crucible or a weighing bottle. Cooling the heated object is a must
before weighing.

Fig. 1.9 Plot of the Absolute error against the Time after removal from oven at 110oC (A)
porcelain filtering crucible (B) weighing bottle containing 7.5 g KCl

3. Static charge
Static charge acquire by a porcelain or glass object particularly during low humidity environment
A low-level source of radioactivity in the balance will provide sufficient ions to relieve the charge.
Alternately, the object can be wiped with a faintly damp chamois.

Equipment and Manipulations in Weighing

1. Weighing bottles
In drying of solids, weighing bottles is conveniently
being used. On the left is a ground glass portion of a cap
style bottle and does not come into contact with the
content which eliminates the possibility of subsequent
losses of the sample from the surface.
Fig. 1.10 Weighing bottle

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2. Dessicator and dessicants

To minimize the uptake of moisture,
dried materials are stored in
desicators while cooling. When
removing or replacing the lid of a
desiccator, use a sliding motion to
minimize the likelihood of
disturbing the sample. An airtight
seal is achieved by slight rotation
and downward pressure on the
positioned lid.

When placing a heated object in a

desiccator, the increase in pressure
Fig. 1.11 (a) Component of dessicators, (b) photo as the enclosed air is warmed may
of dessicator containing weighing bottle be sufficient to break the seal
between lid and base. Conversely, if
the seal is not broken, the cooling of
heated objects can cause a partial
vacuum to develop.

3. Filtration and ignition of solids

The crucibles used in filtration and ignitions are (1) simple crucibles, (2) filttering crucibles
and (3) filter paper. Ignition

Simple crucibles
It only serves as container. It maintain constant mass-within the limits of experimental error-
and are used principally to convert a precipitate into a suitable weighing form. The solid is
first collected on a filter paper. The filter and contents are then transferred to a weighed
crucible, and the paper is ignited.

Filtering crucibles
Filtering crucibles serve not only as containers but also as filters. A vacuum is used to hasten
the filtration; a tight seal between crucible and filtering flask is accomplished with any of
several types of rubber adaptors. Filtering crucible can be sintered glass (also called fritted
glass) and gooch crucible which has a perforated bottom that support a fibrous mat.

Filter paper
It is a very important filtering medium. Ashless paper is used for samples which undergo
ignition.

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Table 1.3 summarizes the characteristics of common filtering media.

Table 1.3 Comparison of filtering media for gravimetric analyses

Gooch Aluminum
Glass Porcelain
Characteristic Paper Crucible, Oxide
Crucible Crucible
Glass Mat Crucible
Speed of filtration Slow Rapid Rapid Rapid Rapid
Convenience and Troublesome,
Convenient Convenient Convenient Convenient
case of preparation inconvenient
Maximum ignition
None > 500 200-500 1100 1450
temperature deg C
Carbon has
Chemical Reactivity reducing Inert Inert Inert Inert
properties
Many Several Several Several Several
Porosity
available Available Available Available Available
Convenience with Unsuitable; Unsuitable; Unsuitable; Unsuitable;
gelatinous Satisfactory filter tends filter tends filter tends to filter tends to
precipitates to clog to clog clog clog
Cost Low Low High High High

Heating equipment
The heating equipment can be used are the following:

Low temperature drying. It operates at 1400C to 260°C with 110oC satisfactory drying
temperature. Drying of solid was done through forced circulation and the passage of predried
air through an oven designed to operate under a partial vacuum represents an additional
improvement.

Microwave laboratory ovens are currently quite popular since it shortens drying cycles. It
uses electromagnetic waves in dying of the sample.

An ordinary heat lamp can be used to dry a precipitate that has been collected on ashless
paper and to char the paper as well.

Burners are convenient sources of intense heat. The maximum attainable temperature
depends on the design of the burner and the combustion properties of the fuel. Of the three
common laboratory burners, the Meker burner provides the highest temperatures, followed
by the Tirrill and Bunsen types. A heavy-duty electric furnace (muffle furnace) is capable
of maintaining controlled temperatures of 1100 oC or higher. Long-handled tongs and heat-
resistant gloves are needed for protection when transferring objects to or from such a furnace.

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Measuring volume

The unit measure of volume is liter (L). A 1-L volume is equivalent to 1000 mL, 0.001m3 and
1000cm3. The following are the apparatus for volume measurements:

Pipets.
Permit the transfer of accurately known volumes from one container to another. A volumetric
or transfer pipet delivers a single or fixed volume between 0.05 and 200 mL, color coded by
volume for convenience in identification and sorting. Measuring pipets are calibrated in
convenient units to permit delivery of any volume up to a maximum capacity of 0.1to 25 mL.

Fig. 1.12 Typical Pipets: (a) volumetric pipet, (b) Mohr pipet, (c) Sereological pipet (d)
Eppendorf micropipet, (e) Ostwald-Folin pipet, (f) Lambda pipet.

Table 2-2 Characteristics of pipets

Type of Available
Name Function Type of Drainage
Calibration Capacity, mL
Volumetric TD Delivery of fixed volume 1-300 Free
Delivery of variable To lower calibration
Mohr TD 1-25
volume line
Delivery of variable
Serological TD 0.1-10 Blow out last drop
volume
Delivery of variable To lower calibration
Serological TD 0.1-10
volume line
Ostwald-Folin TD Delivery of fixed volume 0.5-10 Blow out last drop
Containment of fixed Wash out with
Lambda TC 0.001-2
volume suitable solvent

Lambda TD Delivery of fixed volume 0.001-2 Blow out last drop

Delivery of variable or Tip emptied by air
Eppendorf TD 0.001-1
fixed volume displacement
* TD, to deliver, TC, to contain
†A frosted ring near the top of pipets indicates that the last drop is to be blown out.

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Burets.
The precision attainable with buret is
substantially greater than the precision with a
pipet. A buret consists of a calibrated tube to
hold titrant plus a valve arrangement by which
the flow of titrant is controlled. It is equipped
with a glass stopcock for a valve relies a
lubricant between ground-glass surfaces of a
stopcock and barrel for a liquid-tight seal.
Solutions notably bases, cause glass stopcock
to freeze when they are in place for long
periods; therefore thorough cleaning is needed
for each use. Valves made of Teflon are
commonly encountered; these are unaffected
by most common reagents and require no Fig 1.13 Burets: (a) glass-bead
lubricant.
valve. (b) Teflon valve.

Volumetric flask.
These are manufactured with capacities
ranging from 5 mL to 5 L and are usually
calibrated to contain a specified volume
when filled to a line etched on the neck.
They are used for preparations of
standard solutions and for a dilution of
samples to a fixed volume prior to taking
aliquot through a pipet.

Fig 1.14 Volumetric flask

Reading volumes of liquid

The top surface of a liquid confined in a narrow tube exhibits a marked curvature or meniscus. It
is common practice to use the bottom of the meniscus as the point of reference in calibrating and
using volumetric equipment. This minimum can be established more exactly by holding an opaque
card or piece of paper behind the graduations.

In reading volumes, the eye must be at the level of the liquid surface to avoid an error due to
parallax, a condition that causes the volume to appear smaller than its actual value if the meniscus
is viewed from above and larger if the meniscus is viewed from below (Fig 1.13).

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Method of Reading Reading

The student reads the buret

from a position above a line 12.58mL
perpendicular to the buret and
makes a reading

The student reads the buret

from a position along a line 12.62mL
perpendicular to the buret and
makes a reading.

The student reads the buret

from a position above a line 12.67mL
perpendicular to the buret and
makes a reading

Fig 1.15 Reading a buret

*To avoid the problem of parallax, buret readings should be made consistently along a line
perpendicular to the buret, as shown in (b).

Cleaning of Apparatus

Pipet. Use a rubber bulb to draw detergent solution to level 2 to 3 cm above the calibration mark
of the pipet with several portions of tap water. Inspect the fil breaks, repeat this portion of the
cleaning cycle if necessary. Finally, fill the pipet with distilled water to perhaps 1/3 of its capacity
and carefully rotate it so that the entire interior surface is wetted. Repeat this rinsing step at least
twice.

Burets. Thoroughly clean the tube of buret with detergent and a long brush. Rinse thoroughly with
tap water and then with distilled water. Inspect for water breaks. Repeat the treatment if necessary.

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Volumetric flask. A brief soaking in warm detergent solution is usually sufficient to remove the
grease and dirt responsible for water breaks. Prolonged soaking should be avoided because a rough
area or ring is likely to develop at a detergent air interface. After being cleaned, the apparatus must
be thoroughly rinsed with tap water and then with three or more portions of distilled water.

Laboratory Notebook
A laboratory notebook is needed to record measurements and observation concerning in the
analysis.
1. All the data and observations must be directly record to the notebook.
2. Neatness is desirable but must achieve neatness by transcribing data from one notebook to
another because it might cause an error.
3. Supply entry or series of entries with heading or labels.
4. Never attempt to erase or obliterate an incorrect entry.
5. Provide date and number for each page of the notebook used.
6. Never remove a page from the notebook. Draw a diagonal line if the page is not being used
or wrong entry.

SAFETY IN THE LABORATORY

Work in a chemical laboratory necessarily involves a degree of risk; accidents can and do
happen. Strict adherence to the following rules will go far toward preventing (or minimizing the
effect of) accidents.

1. At the outset, learn the location of the nearest eye fountain, tire blanket, shower, and fire
extinguisher. Learn the proper use of each, and do not hesitate to use this equipment should
the need arise.

2. Wear eye protection at all times. The potential for serious and perhaps permanent eye injury
makes it mandatory that adequate eye protection be worn at all times by students,
instructors and visitors. Eye protection should be donned before entering the laboratory
and should be used continuously until it is time to leave. Serious eye injuries have occurred
to people performing such innocuous tasks as computing or writing in a laboratory
notebook; such incidents usually result from someone else's loss of control over an
experiment. Regular prescription glasses are not adequate substitutes for eye protection
approved by the Office of Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Contact lenses
should never be used in the laboratory because laboratory fumes may react with them and
have a harmful effect on the eyes.

3. Most of the chemicals in a laboratory are toxic; some are very toxic, and some – such as
concentrated solutions of acids and bases – are highly corrosive. Avoid contact between
these liquids and the skin. In the event of such contact, immediately flood the affected area
with copious quantities of water. If a corrosive solution is spilled on clothing, remove the
garment immediately. Time is of the essence; do not be concerned about modesty.

4. NEVER perform an unauthorized experiment. Unauthorized experiments are grounds for

disqualification at many institutions.

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5. Never work alone in the laboratory; be certain that someone is always within earshot.

6. Never bring food or beverages into the laboratory. Do not drink from laboratory glassware.
Do not smoke in the laboratory.

7. Always use a bulb or other device to draw liquids into a pipet: NEVER use your mouth to
provide suction.

8. Wear adequate foot covering (no sandals). Confine long hair with a net. A laboratory coat
or apron will provide some protection and may be required.

9. Be extremely tentative in touching objects that have been heated; hot glass looks just like
cold glass.

10. Always fire-polish the ends of freshly cut glass tubing. NEVER attempt to force glass
tubing through the hole of a stopper. Instead, make sure that both tubing and hole are wet
with soapy water. Protect your hands with several layers of towel while inserting glass into
a stopper.

11. Use fume hoods whenever toxic or noxious gases are likely to be evolved. Be cautious in
testing for odors; use your hand to waft vapors above containers toward your nose.

12. Notify your instructor immediately in the event of an injury.

Dispose of solutions and chemicals as instructed. It is illegal to flush solutions containing heavy
metal ions or organic liquids down the drain in many localities; alternative arrangements are
required for the disposal of such liquids.

1.4.2 Using spreadsheet in analytical chemistry

In this course, wwe will use Microsoft excel in tabulation of data and analysis. The window in
Microsoft excel contains a worksheet consisting of grids of cells arranged in rows and columns.
The rows are labelled 1,2,3 and so on and the columns are A, B, C and so forth in the margin of
the worksheet. Each cell has a unique location specified by its address. The address of the active
cell is always displayed in the box just above the first column of the displayed worksheet in the
formula bar.

The use of microsoft excel is important in calculating and treatment of your data gathered during
the experiments. Raw files coming from laboratory equipment such as UV Visible spectroscopy,
atomic absorption spectroscopy and other can be manage in Microsoft excel. It is also useful in
doing statistical analysis.

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CHE 401 : ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY

Fig 1.16 The opening window in microsoft excel

Fig 1.17 Sample worksheet in microsoft excel

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CHE 401 : ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY

1.4.3 Errors in chemical analysis

Errors and uncertainties invariably involved in measurements. The term error has two slightly
different meaning:

1. Refers to the difference of the between the measured value and the true “know” value.
2. Denotes the estimated uncertainty in a measurement or experiment.

Usually, faulty calibrations or standardizations are those which frequently causing errors. Also,
measurement errors are inherent part of the world we live, hence it is impossible to do an
experiment with a free error. However, we can limit the occurrence of error by doing frequent
calibrations, standardization and proper procedure in doing the analysis. The effect of error in the
analytical data is illustrated in Fig. 1.18.

Fig 1.18 Results from six replicate determinations of in aqueous samples of a standard solution
containing 20.0 ppm iron (III)
No information about the variability of results has been given, chemists usually 2 – 5 replicates of
a sample through an entire analytical procedure. Individual results from a set of measurements are
seldom the same. We usually consider the "best" estimate to be the central value for the set.

We justify the extra effort required to analyze several samples in two ways.
1. The central value of a set should be more reliable than any of the individual results. Usually,
the mean or the median is used as the central value for a set of replicate measurements.
2. An analysis of the variation in data allows us to estimate the uncertainty associated with
the central result.

MEAN and MEDIAN

The most widely used measure of central value is the mean, x. The mean, also called the arithmetic
mean, or the average, is obtained by dividing the sum of replicate measurements by the number of
measurements in the set:

∑𝐍
𝐢=𝟏 𝐱 𝐢
𝐱̅ = (1.2)
𝐍

Where xi represents the individual values of x making up the set of N replicate measurements.

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The median is the middle result when replicate data are arranged according to increasing or
decreasing value. There are equal numbers of results that are larger and smaller than the median.
For an odd number of results, the median can be evaluated directly. For an even number, the mean
of the middle pair is used.

In ideal cases, the mean and median are identical, but when the number of measurements in the set
is small, the values often differ.

EXAMPLE 1.1
Calculate the mean and median for the data shown in Figure 2.9.

𝟏𝟗. 𝟒 + 𝟏𝟗. 𝟓 + 𝟏𝟗. 𝟔 + 𝟏𝟗. 𝟖 + 𝟐𝟎. 𝟏 + 𝟐𝟎. 𝟑

𝐦𝐞𝐚𝐧 = 𝐱̅ =
𝟔
= 19.78 = 19.8 ppm Fe

Because the set contains an even number of measurements, the median is the average of the central
pair:
𝟏𝟗. 𝟔 + 𝟏𝟗. 𝟖
𝐦𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐚𝐧 = = 𝟏𝟗. 𝟕𝐩𝐩𝐦𝐅𝐞
𝟐

PRECISION

Precision describes the reproducibility of measurements – in other words, the closeness of results
that have been obtained in exactly the same way. Generally, the precision of a measurement is
readily determined by simply repeating the measurement on replicate samples.

Three terms are widely used to describe the precision of a set of replicate data: standard deviation,
variance, and coefficient of variation. These three are functions of how much an individual result
xi differs from the mean, which is called the deviation from the mean di;

𝐝𝐢 = [𝐱 𝐢 − 𝐱̅] (1.3)

ACCURACY

Accuracy indicates the closeness of the measurement to the true or accepted value and is expressed
by the error: Fig 1.17 illustrates the difference between accuracy and precision. Note that accuracy
measures agreement between a result and the accepted value. Precision, on the other hand,
describes the agreement among several results obtained in the same way. We can determine
precision just by measuring replicate samples. Accuracy is often more difficult to determine
because the true value is usually unknown. An accepted value must be used instead. Accuracy is
expressed in terms of either absolute or relative error.

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CHE 401 : ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY

ABSOLUTE ERROR

The absolute error E in the measurement of a quantity x is given by the equation

𝐄 = 𝐱𝐢 − 𝐱𝐭 (1.4)

Where xt, is the true or accepted value of the quantity. If we return to the data displayed in Figure
2.9, the absolute error of the result immediately to the left of the true value of 20.00 ppm is - 0.2
ppm Fe; the result at 20.10 ppm is in error by +0.1 ppm Fe. Note that we retain the sign in stating
the absolute error. The negative sign in the first case shows that the experimental result is smaller
than the accepted value, while the positive sign in the second case shows that the experimental
result is larger than the accepted value.

RELATIVE ERROR

Often, the relative error Eris a more useful quantity than the absolute error. The percent relative
error is given by the expression
xi − xt
Er = xi
x 100% (1.5)

Relative error is also expressed in parts per thousand (ppt). For example, the relative error for the
mean of the data in Figure 1.7 is

𝟏𝟗. 𝟖 − 𝟐𝟎. 𝟎
𝐄𝐫 = 𝐱𝟏𝟎𝟎% = −𝟏%, 𝐨𝐫 − 𝟏𝟎𝐩𝐩𝐭
𝟐𝟎. 𝟎

The relative error of a measurement is the absolute error divided by the true value. Relative error
may be expressed in percent, parts per thousand, or parts per million depending on the magnitude
of the result.

Fig 1.19 Acccuracy and Precision in a dart board

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CHE 401 : ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY

ERRORS AND UNCERTAINTY

Error is defined as the difference between your answer and the true one. The precision of a
measurement is readily determined by comparing data from carefully replicated experiments.
Unfortunately, an estimate of the accuracy is not as easy to obtain. To determine the accuracy, we
have to know the true value, which is usually what we are seeking in the analysis.

Results can be precise without being accurate and accurate without being precise. The danger of
assuming that precise results are also accurate is illustrated in Fig 1.20 which summarizes the
results for determining nitrogen in two pure compounds. The dots show the absolute errors of
replicate results obtained by four analysts.

Analyst 1 - Obtained relatively high precision and high accuracy.

Analyst 2 - Had poor precision but good accuracy.

Analyst 3 - are surprisingly common. The precision is excellent, but there is significant
error in the numerical average for the data.

Analyst 4 - Both the precision and the accuracy are poor for the results of analyst 4.

Fig 1.20 Absolute error in the micro-Kjeldahl determination of nitrogen. Each dot represents the
error associated with a single determination. Each vertical line labeled(xi - xt) is the absolute average
deviation of the set from the true value. (Data from C.O. Willits and C.L. Ogg, J. Assoc. Offic. Anal.
Chem., 1949, 32, 561. With permission).

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CHE 401 : ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY

TYPES OF ERRORS

1. Random (or indeterminate) error,

Error causes data to be scattered more or less symmetrically around a mean value. Refer
again to Fig. 1.20 and notice that the scatter in the data, and thus the random error, for
analysts 1 and 3 is significantly less than that for analysts 2 and 4. In general, then, the
random error in a measurement is reflected by its precision

2. Systematic (or determinate) error,

Error causes the mean of a data set to differ from the accepted value. For example, the
mean of the results in Fig. 1.19 has a systematic error of about -0.2 ppm Fe. The results of
analysts 1 and 2 in Fig 1.20 have little systematic error, but the data of analysts 3 and 4
show systematic errors of about -0.7% and -1.2% nitrogen.

In general, systematic error in a series of replicate measurements causes all the results to
be too high or too low. An example of a systematic error is the unsuspected loss of a volatile
analyte while heating a sample.

There are three types of systematic errors:

1. Instrumental errors are caused by non ideal instrument behavior, by faulty
calibrations, or by use under inappropriate conditions.
2. Method errors arise from non-ideal chemical or physical behaviour of analytical
systems.
3. Personal errors result from the carelessness, inattention, or personal limitations of
the experimenter

3. Gross error
Gross error usually is a fault of a person in using an
instrument. For example, if part of a precipitate is lost
before weighing, analytical results will be low. Touching
a weighing bottle with your fingers after its empty mass
is determined will cause a high mass reading for a solid
weighed in the contaminated bottle.

Gross errors differ from indeterminate and determinate

errors. They usually occur only occasionally, are often
large, and may cause a result to be either high or low.

Gross errors lead to outliers results (Fig 1.21 a dot on

upper right portion) that appear to differ markedly from
all other data in a set of replicate measurements.
Fig 1.21 Outlier

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1.5 END OF MODULE TEST

1. Tools in Analytical Chemistry (Do it in word file and send in pdf)

a. Draw at least 10 chemical apparatus that used in handling, preparation and

analysis of solid and liquid samples/chemicals. Give its function/use.
b. Differentiate qualitative and quantitative analysis. Give examples.
c. What is constant weighing? Why is it important in the analysis of samples? How it
is being done.

2. Treatment of data using spreadsheet (Do it in excel file and send as is)
Below is the image of an iron oxide nanoparticle analysed using scanning electron
microscope at 20K magnification. The sizes of the particle are measured and is expressed
in micrometer.

Prepare the table using Microsoft excel showing the following: (Make sure you will use the
formula bar in calculating values)

1. Table of particle size in nanometers

2. Total number of particles
3. Mean
4. Median
5. Standard deviation
6. Histogram at the interval of 20 nanometers.
7. Is there any outlier in the analysis, if there is what is/are those?

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