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Analysis and Conclusion

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Analysis

The average volume of NaOH required to reach the equivalence point was measured

as 18.13 mL. From this volume, the number of moles of NaOH was calculated to be 0.009065

moles, which represents the number of moles of acetic acid present in the vinegar sample.

Based on the stoichiometry of the reaction between NaOH and acetic acid, it was concluded

that the moles of NaOH and acetic acid are equal. Therefore, the moles of acetic acid in the

vinegar sample were also determined to be 0.009065 moles. To calculate the percentage by

mass of acetic acid, the molar mass of acetic acid (CH3COOH) was used, and the result was

found to be 5.4%.

However, one important factor to consider is the rinsing of glassware. The additional

volume of water left after rinsing might affect the final results in terms of calculating the

moles of acetic acid. The water present in the glassware could potentially dilute the acetic

acid in the vinegar sample, leading to a lower concentration and, subsequently, an

underestimation of the percentage by mass. To minimize this potential source of error in

future experiments, it is crucial to ensure thorough rinsing of glassware with distilled water,

followed by complete drying, to eliminate any residual water. This would prevent dilution of

the acetic acid and provide more accurate results. Furthermore, other sources of error may

include imprecise measurement of volumes, incomplete mixing of reagents, and variations in

the concentration of the NaOH solution. To improve accuracy, the use of calibrated

glassware, careful handling of reagents, and proper calibration of the NaOH solution should

be implemented.

Conclusion

In conclusion, based on the results of the titration and analysis, the percentage by

mass of acetic acid in the vinegar sample was found to be 5.4%, which is above the minimum
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requirement of 4% by law. The titration was performed by using a standardized solution of

sodium hydroxide (NaOH) to neutralize the acetic acid present in the vinegar sample. The

calculated percentage by mass of acetic acid in the vinegar sample was determined by using

the molar mass of acetic acid and the volume of vinegar used in the titration. The obtained

result was within the expected range for commercial vinegar, indicating that the sample was

of good quality and complied with the regulatory requirements.