Chemistry Practical Report
Standardization of Iron(II) Solution Using a Standard KMnO₄ Solution
Introduction
Redox titration is a common analytical method used in chemistry to determine the
concentration of a reducing agent using an oxidizing agent. In this experiment, the reducing
agent is iron(II) ions (Fe²⁺), and the oxidizing agent is potassium permanganate (KMnO₄).
Potassium permanganate is a strong oxidizing agent, and in acidic medium, it reacts with
Fe²⁺ ions to oxidize them to Fe³⁺ ions, while itself being reduced to Mn²⁺ ions. The reaction
takes place in the presence of dilute sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄), which provides the acidic
medium necessary for the reaction to occur efficiently. This practical is essential for
understanding the stoichiometry of redox reactions, titration techniques, and the use of
indicators in volumetric analysis. The end point of the titration is indicated by a persistent
pale pink colour, which signifies that all the Fe²⁺ ions have reacted and there is a slight
excess of KMnO₄.
Apparatus and Chemicals
The following apparatus and chemicals are required for this experiment:
- Burette (50 cm³)
- Pipette (25 cm³)
- Conical flask (250 cm³)
- Beakers
- Funnel
- Retort stand and clamp
- White tile
- Wash bottle with distilled water
Chemicals:
- Potassium permanganate solution (KMnO₄), standard solution
- Iron(II) ammonium sulfate solution (Fe²⁺), unknown concentration
- Dilute sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄)
- Distilled water
Procedure
1. Rinse the pipette with the iron(II) solution and use it to transfer exactly 25.0 cm³ of the
solution into a clean conical flask.
2. Add approximately 20 cm³ of dilute sulfuric acid to the conical flask using a measuring
cylinder.
3. Rinse the burette with the standard KMnO₄ solution and then fill it using a funnel.
4. Record the initial burette reading and start titrating the Fe²⁺ solution by slowly adding
KMnO₄ solution while constantly swirling the conical flask.
5. The KMnO₄ solution should be added dropwise as the end point approaches. The end
point is the first permanent pale pink colour that persists for 30 seconds.
6. Record the final burette reading and calculate the volume of KMnO₄ used.
7. Repeat the titration process at least three times to obtain concordant titres (within 0.10
cm³ of each other).
8. Calculate the average titre value and use it to determine the concentration of the iron(II)
solution.
Balanced Redox Equation
The balanced ionic equation for the reaction in acidic medium is:
MnO₄⁻ + 5Fe²⁺ + 8H⁺ → Mn²⁺ + 5Fe³⁺ + 4H₂O
This equation shows that one mole of permanganate ions reacts with five moles of iron(II)
ions. This stoichiometry will be used in the calculation of the unknown concentration.
Observations
- The KMnO₄ solution is purple in colour.
- The iron(II) solution is pale green.
- Upon titration, the purple KMnO₄ decolourizes when it reacts with Fe²⁺.
- The end point is identified by the first appearance of a faint pink colour that remains
stable.
- Concordant titres were recorded in at least two trials, ensuring accuracy and
reproducibility.
Questions and Calculations
a. Tabulate your burette readings and calculate the average volume of KMnO₄ used.
b. From your results, calculate the following:
(i) Concentration of the iron(II) ions in mol/dm³ using the average titre and the balanced
redox equation.
(ii) Mass concentration of the iron(II) ions in g/dm³.
(iii) Number of moles of KMnO₄ used in the reaction.
(iv) Number of moles of Fe²⁺ present in 25.0 cm³ of solution.
(v) Concentration of KMnO₄ in mol/dm³ and g/dm³ if required.
Use the molar masses: Mn = 54.94 g/mol, Fe = 55.85 g/mol, O = 16.00 g/mol.
Conclusion
This experiment demonstrates a successful redox titration between iron(II) solution and
potassium permanganate. The results show a clear understanding of redox stoichiometry,
careful titration technique, and the use of KMnO₄ as a self-indicating oxidizing agent. The
pale pink endpoint was easily observable due to the intense purple colour of KMnO₄. By
obtaining concordant results, the average titre value was determined, which allowed for the
accurate calculation of the concentration of the unknown iron(II) solution. This practical
highlights the importance of precise measurements and observations in quantitative
chemical analysis.
