Into 25mL of sample (in dilute nitric acid) which contains Hg 2+, 31,5 mL 0,04882M EDTA is

added. Then, pH is determined with buffer chloride ammonia buffer solution on pH 10. Into the
solution is added EBT indicator then, and the excess EDTA is titrated back with 0,01137 M
Mg2+, which needs 24,66mL to reach equivalent point. Determine the concentration of Hg 2+ in
the sample.

Answer.

Hg2+ ions will form complex compound (1:1) with EDTA so the concentration can be
determined.

1. The amount of EDTA added (initial) into the sample is 31,5 mL 0,04882M EDTA =
(31,5 mL x 0,0488 M) = 1,5372 mmol EDTA
2. The amount of excess EDTA (end of back titration) is known from back titration with
Mg2+, which is as much as Mg2+ needed in 24,66 mL, 0,01137 M = (24,66 mL x
0,01137 M) = 0,2804 mmol EDTA
3. The amount of Hg2+ in the sample is as much as reacted EDTA, which is known from the
difference of initial EDTA mole and back titration EDTA mole, so (1) – (2) = 1,5372
mmmol – 0,2804 mmol = 1,2568 mmol Hg2+

The concentration of Hg2+ is

¿
[Hg2+] = 1,2568 mmol Hg 2+ 25 mL ¿

= 0,050272 M Hg2+