Find the Molarity of a Solution Using Concentrated Ammonia (28% by Mass)

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the molarity of a solution created by diluting concentrated ammonia (28% by mass) in water. Participants explore the necessary calculations and concepts related to molarity, mass percentage, and density, while addressing common pitfalls in the process.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant calculates the mass of ammonia solution using the volume and density, arriving at 31.24 g, and then determines the number of moles of NH3 as 1.8344 mol.
  • Another participant suggests that the total mass of the solution must be calculated using the mass percentage formula, leading to a total mass of 111.57 g for the solution.
  • There is a discussion about whether to multiply the number of moles by 0.28 to account for the 28% concentration when calculating molarity.
  • Some participants point out a mistake in calculating the mass of ammonia, clarifying that the initial calculation gives the mass of the solution, not the ammonia itself, and recommend multiplying by 0.28 to find the mass of ammonia present.
  • One participant acknowledges their mistake and expresses gratitude for the clarification provided by others.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the steps needed to calculate the molarity but express differing views on the correct interpretation of the mass percentage and the calculations involved. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the final molarity due to the differing approaches taken.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the importance of understanding the distinction between the mass of the solution and the mass of the solute, which affects the calculations. There are unresolved aspects regarding the application of the mass percentage in the context of the solution's total mass.

antonisz
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Homework Statement



Calculate the molarity of a solution made by adding 35.5 mL of concentrated ammonia (28.0 % by mass, density 0.880 g/mL) to some water in a volumetric flask, then adding water to the mark to make exactly 250 mL of solution. (It is important to add concentrated acid or base to water, rather than the other way, to minimize splashing and maximize safety.)
u

Homework Equations



Molarity = mol / liter

Mass % = (grams of solute / grams of solution) * 100

Density = mass / volume

The Attempt at a Solution



a) I used the ml of NH3 to find the number of grams of NH3 - 35.5 ml * 0.88 g/ml = 31.24 g

b) I then used that amount to find the number of mole - (31.24 g / 17.03) = 1.8344 mol of NH3

This is where I am stuck. I used the % mass formula to find that the total grams of solution is 111.57 (0.28 = 31.24 / x and cross multiply), but I have no idea where to go from here.

I know that if I compute the molarity using (1.8344 mol / .250 L) I'll get the moles of NH3 at concentration 100%, would I need to multiply the number of moles by 0.28 to get the 28% concentration?

*Edit* Yes, it turns out that that would make sense, too much chemistry for the last 2 hours! I haven't taken Gen Chem in a couple years and getting thrown into Analytical, I should have reviewed some of these concepts. [/B]
 
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antonisz said:

Homework Statement



Calculate the molarity of a solution made by adding 35.5 mL of concentrated ammonia (28.0 % by mass, density 0.880 g/mL) to some water in a volumetric flask, then adding water to the mark to make exactly 250 mL of solution. (It is important to add concentrated acid or base to water, rather than the other way, to minimize splashing and maximize safety.)
u

Homework Equations



Molarity = mol / liter

Mass % = (grams of solute / grams of solution) * 100

Density = mass / volume

The Attempt at a Solution



a) I used the ml of NH3 to find the number of grams of NH3 - 35.5 ml * 0.88 g/ml = 31.24 g

b) I then used that amount to find the number of mole - (31.24 g / 17.03) = 1.8344 mol of NH3

This is where I am stuck. I used the % mass formula to find that the total grams of solution is 111.57 (0.28 = 31.24 / x and cross multiply), but I have no idea where to go from here.

I know that if I compute the molarity using (1.8344 mol / .250 L) I'll get the moles of NH3 at concentration 100%, would I need to multiply the number of moles by 0.28 to get the 28% concentration?

*Edit* Yes, it turns out that that would make sense, too much chemistry for the last 2 hours! I haven't taken Gen Chem in a couple years and getting thrown into Analytical, I should have reviewed some of these concepts. [/B]

In step (a), you have found the mass of ammonia solution . The mass of ammonia molecules in this solution is 28% of this. Remember that ammonia is a gas, the stuff you are working with is ammonia gas dissolved in water. Taking 28% of 31.24 g will tell you how many grams of ammonia are actually present in the solution. Continue on as you have done to calculate the final concentration.
 
antonisz said:

Homework Statement



Calculate the molarity of a solution made by adding 35.5 mL of concentrated ammonia (28.0 % by mass, density 0.880 g/mL) to some water in a volumetric flask, then adding water to the mark to make exactly 250 mL of solution. (It is important to add concentrated acid or base to water, rather than the other way, to minimize splashing and maximize safety.)
u

Homework Equations



Molarity = mol / liter

Mass % = (grams of solute / grams of solution) * 100

Density = mass / volume

The Attempt at a Solution



a) I used the ml of NH3 to find the number of grams of NH3 - 35.5 ml * 0.88 g/ml = 31.24 g

b) I then used that amount to find the number of mole - (31.24 g / 17.03) = 1.8344 mol of NH3

This is where I am stuck. I used the % mass formula to find that the total grams of solution is 111.57 (0.28 = 31.24 / x and cross multiply), but I have no idea where to go from here.

I know that if I compute the molarity using (1.8344 mol / .250 L) I'll get the moles of NH3 at concentration 100%, would I need to multiply the number of moles by 0.28 to get the 28% concentration?

*Edit* Yes, it turns out that that would make sense, too much chemistry for the last 2 hours! I haven't taken Gen Chem in a couple years and getting thrown into Analytical, I should have reviewed some of these concepts. [/B]
I think you are making a mistake while calculating the mass of ammonia. The solution contains 28% by mass of ammonia. 35.5 x .88 will give you the mass of the solution, not NH3. Multiply that further by 0.28 to get the grams of ammonia. Then retry solving the problem.
 
siddharth23 said:
I think you are making a mistake while calculating the mass of ammonia. The solution contains 28% by mass of ammonia. 35.5 x .88 will give you the mass of the solution, not NH3. Multiply that further by 0.28 to get the grams of ammonia. Then retry solving the problem.
Yes, thank you. I caught my mistake. Just some careless thinking on my part.

Thank you for the response.
 
antonisz said:
Yes, thank you. I caught my mistake. Just some careless thinking on my part.

Thank you for the response.
Glad to help :)
 

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