How Much EDTA Is Needed to Neutralize Calcium in a 44-Gallon Drum?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the amount of Ethylene diamine tetra-acetic acid (EDTA) required to neutralize calcium in a 44-gallon drum containing 20 mg/L of calcium. The molecular formula for EDTA is C10N2O8H16, and it complexes with one metal atom per molecule. To determine the mass of EDTA needed, one must first convert the concentration of calcium from mg/L to moles and then calculate the corresponding moles of EDTA required based on the stoichiometry of the reaction.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of molarity and concentration calculations
  • Knowledge of stoichiometry in chemical reactions
  • Familiarity with the molecular weight of compounds (e.g., EDTA and calcium)
  • Basic skills in unit conversion (e.g., gallons to liters)
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate the total moles of calcium in 44 gallons using the concentration provided
  • Determine the mass of EDTA required using the molar mass of EDTA (294.24 g/mol)
  • Explore the implications of using EDTA in waste treatment processes
  • Research alternative chelating agents for metal ion neutralization
USEFUL FOR

Chemistry students, environmental engineers, and professionals involved in waste management and treatment processes will benefit from this discussion.

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Homework Statement



Ethylene diamine tetra-acetic acid (EDTA) is a water-soluble compound that readily combines with metals, such as calcium, magnesium, and iron. The molecular formula for EDTA is C10N2O8H16. Assume one EDTA molecule complexes (associates with) one metal atom.

A factory produces an aqueous waste that contains 20 mg/L calcium and collects the waste in 44-gallon drums. What mass of EDTA would be need to be added to each drum to completely complex all of the calcium in the barrel.



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The Attempt at a Solution


I'm really not sure how to go about this one, i started off trying a few things but it ended up at a dead end...here's what I got so far:

0.02 g/L * 1 mol Ca / 40.078 g Ca * X mol EDTA / 1 mol Ca * 294.24 g EDTA / 1 mol EDTA

I realized this wasn't getting me any closer to an answer so that's why I'm asking for any help you guys can offer.
 
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Calculate number of moles of Ca in 44 gallons.