Q3(a). Reading a weak-acid titration curve
The titration curve for a weak acid vs. strong base (NaOH) has the following shape [titration curve given in the paper]. (i) Identify the weak acid: I. CH₃COOH (Ka = 1.69 × 10⁻⁵) II. HCN (Ka = 5 × 10⁻¹⁰) III. Benzoic acid (Ka = 6.3 × 10⁻⁵) IV. Pyridinium ion (Ka = 5.9 × 10⁻⁶). (ii) Explain the process and species involved in the regions marked as (1), (2), (3) and (4) that contribute to the pH at near regions.
Model answer
The free solution for 2024 answers questions 1, 2, 5, 6, 9 and 11, the ones picked in its time plan. Question 3 is answered in full in the Geo-Scientist Chemistry Paper I, 2021 to 2025 book, with every part of every paper.
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UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist (Main) Chemistry Paper I: Model Answers 2021 to 2025
- All eleven questions of each paper, with the question printed above its answer
- Titration, gravimetric and nuclear numericals worked with units; structures drawn
- Topic-wise weightage and a topic-wise index
Coversweak acid titration curvebuffer regionequivalence pointhydrolysisKa
All parts of Question 3
- 3(a) Reading a weak-acid titration curve15 marks
- 3(b) Criteria for a suitable indicator5 marks
- 3(c) Carbonate–bicarbonate mixtures10 marks