Proving inflection points - Titration

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of determining inflection points on titration graphs, specifically in the context of glycine with two pKa values. Participants explore how to prove the location of these inflection points, referencing both theoretical and practical aspects of titration curves.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant mentions that their professor stated the inflection point can be found as the average of the two pKa values, but does not provide a method for proving this.
  • Another participant challenges this claim, stating that glycine titrated with KOH shows two endpoints at specific pH values, suggesting a potential misunderstanding of inflection points.
  • A third participant acknowledges the possible error in the professor's example but expresses a desire to understand how to prove the inflection points regardless.
  • A later reply suggests creating a first derivative plot of delta pH versus volume of base added to identify the inflection point as the peak of the spike in the graph.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the method for determining inflection points, with some questioning the professor's approach and others seeking clarification on the calculations involved.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved assumptions regarding the definitions of inflection points and the specific conditions under which the titration is performed. The discussion also highlights potential discrepancies in the interpretation of titration curves.

apchemstudent
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This is not a homework question, but my prof came up with the concept of determining the inflection point on a titration graph with 2 pKas. He simply told us that it was the average of the 2 pKa values. However, he also just mentioned that it can also be proven through calculations, but he never showed us how.

I'm just curious as to how this can be proven, and this is not a homework question. Can some one show this to me? Thanks.

The example we were talking about in class was glycine :P, again. so the COOH group's pKa value was 2.4, and the NH3(+) group's pKa value was 9.6.

I just don't know how to prove it...
 
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Something is wrong. Glycine (or any other substance with 2.3/9.6) when titrated with KOH (0.1M both solutions) have two endpoints at 6.02 and 11.01.

Download BATE (link in signature - pH calculation) and play with titration curves - seems to me I don't what inflection point is or your prof. is wrong.
 
I think he's just using it as an example, even though it might be wrong. The concept is still there. However, i still need help proving the inflection points. I'm just curious as to how it's done. Thanks.
 
Do a 1st Derivative plot. Plot the delta pH/delta volume vs. vol. base added. You will see a bunch of nothing and then a big spike. The tip of the spike is where you inflection point is.
 

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