Preparing a Solution using ppm and ppb -

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the preparation of a 50 ppb lead (Pb) standard solution in 1% nitric acid (HNO3) using a stock solution of 50 ppm Pb. Participants explore the methods of preparation, specifically gravimetric versus volumetric approaches, and clarify the implications of concentration units like ppb and ppm.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Experimental/applied

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes using the dilution formula C1V1 = C2V2 to calculate the volume needed from the stock solution to achieve the desired concentration.
  • Another participant questions the use of the term "gravimetrically" and suggests that at such low concentrations, adsorption of the solute on container surfaces could be significant, raising concerns about the accuracy of the preparation method.
  • There is confusion regarding the interpretation of "50.0 g of 50 ppb Pb standard solution," with participants discussing whether this refers to the mass of the solution or the solute, and the implications of this on the calculations.
  • Some participants express uncertainty about the feasibility of preparing such a low concentration solution from a relatively high concentration stock solution and suggest clarifying the instructions regarding the mass and volume.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the correct method of preparation, with differing views on the gravimetric versus volumetric approach and the interpretation of the solution's mass. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best practices for preparing the solution.

Contextual Notes

Participants note potential issues with adsorption affecting the accuracy of the solution preparation, as well as ambiguities in the instructions regarding the mass of the solution versus the solute. There is also a lack of clarity on the implications of the concentration units used.

Zghakt
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I would like to prepare 50.0 g of 50 ppb Pb standard solution in 1% HNO3 gravimetrically, in a 50.0mL plastic tube from a stock solution of 50 ppm Pb.

From what I understand, this is a dilution...so C1V1 = C2V2

I like working in mg/L more than ppb and ppm so I converted

50 ppb = 0.05 mg/L
50 ppm = 50 mg/L

C1V1 = C2V2
50 mg/L V1 = (0.05 mg/L)(0.05L)
V1 = 0.00005L or 0.05 mL

so then 0.05 mL of 50 ppm Pb and 49.95 mL of HNO3.
Would this be the proper way to prepare this solution?
 
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Zghakt said:
gravimetrically

Zghakt said:
0.05 mL of 50 ppm Pb and 49.95 mL of HNO3
"Gravimetrically?" Or, by volume? At this concentration, a significant fraction of solute is going to be adsorbed on the surfaces of vessels/flasks/containers; are you concerned, or have you made allowances for such an effect?
 
Bystander said:
"Gravimetrically?" Or, by volume? At this concentration, a significant fraction of solute is going to be adsorbed on the surfaces of vessels/flasks/containers; are you concerned, or have you made allowances for such an effect?

This is my first time preparing a solution given the above directions. My instructions stated to prepare the solution gravimetrically. However, I could only figure out how to prepare the solution by volume, ie: 0.05 mL of 50 ppm Pb and 49.95 mL of HNO3. Would you suggest there is a more effective way to make the solution?
 
Zghakt said:
I would like to prepare 50.0 g of 50 ppb Pb standard solution in 1% HNO3 gravimetrically, in a 50.0mL plastic tube from a stock solution of 50 ppm Pb.

From what I understand, this is a dilution...so C1V1 = C2V2

I like working in mg/L more than ppb and ppm so I converted

50 ppb = 0.05 mg/L
50 ppm = 50 mg/L

C1V1 = C2V2
50 mg/L V1 = (0.05 mg/L)(0.05L)
V1 = 0.00005L or 0.05 mL

so then 0.05 mL of 50 ppm Pb and 49.95 mL of HNO3.
Would this be the proper way to prepare this solution?

I doubt you do want to prepare 50 g at 50 ppb - that would be a billion liters wouldn't it?

You had better state or find out what you mean by a billion as there are two different meanings round.

If it is thousand million then you have tondilut your 50 ppm a thousand times. Burt I'm not sure you knows what this means.
 
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epenguin said:
I doubt you do want to prepare 50 g at 50 ppb - that would be a billion liters wouldn't it?

I suppose 50 g refers to the mass of the solution, not of the solute.
 
I misread and thought it was saying 50g of Pb! He also says 50 ml. For his practical purposes I guess it is good enough to. Insider these two the same thing.
 
epenguin said:
I misread and thought it was saying 50g of Pb! He also says 50 ml. For his practical purposes I guess it is good enough to. Insider these two the same thing.

Okay, does this mean the original calculations I posted (see first post) would be correct to prepare the solution then? I can clarify with the person who wrote the directions by what the 50g refers too (either solute or solution)
 

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