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UNIT – IV: Complexometric Titrations — Theory of Indicators
① VERY SHORT ANSWER TYPE [2 Marks Each]
(i) List Out Different Methods of Complexometric Titrations (CT)
| Type | Description |
|---|
| 1. Direct Titration | Metal ion solution is directly titrated with EDTA until endpoint (colour change). Example: Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, Zn²⁺ estimation. |
| 2. Back Titration | Excess known amount of EDTA is added to the metal ion, then excess EDTA is back-titrated with a standard metal salt (e.g., ZnSO₄ or MgSO₄). Used when: direct titration gives no sharp endpoint, reaction is slow, or metal hydroxide precipitates. Example: Al³⁺, Mn²⁺. |
| 3. Replacement (Substitution) Titration | The analyte metal displaces another metal (usually Mg²⁺) from its EDTA complex; the released metal is then titrated with EDTA. Used when no suitable indicator is available. Example: Ca²⁺ displaces Mg from Mg-EDTA. |
| 4. Indirect (Alkalimetric) Titration | For anions or substances that do not react directly with EDTA. The analyte is converted to a metal complex, which is then titrated. Example: PO₄³⁻ precipitated as MgNH₄PO₄, dissolved, and Mg²⁺ titrated. |
(ii) What are Masking and Demasking Agents?
Masking Agents:
These are reagents added to a metal ion solution to prevent a specific interfering metal ion from reacting with EDTA (or another titrant), without physically removing it from solution. The interfering ion is converted into a stable, non-reactive complex that does not bind to the indicator or EDTA.
| Masking Agent | Ion Masked |
|---|
| KCN | Cd²⁺, Zn²⁺, Cu²⁺, Co²⁺, Ni²⁺, Hg²⁺ |
| Triethanolamine (TEA) | Al³⁺, Fe³⁺, Ti⁴⁺ |
| Thiourea | Bi³⁺, Cu⁺ |
| Fluoride (F⁻) | Al³⁺, Fe³⁺, Sn⁴⁺ |
| Dimercaprol (BAL) | Hg²⁺, Pb²⁺ |
| Acetylacetone | Fe³⁺ |
Demasking Agents:
These agents release the masked metal ion for subsequent titration after masking is done.
| Demasking Agent | Releases |
|---|
| Formaldehyde | Zn²⁺, Cd²⁺ (from CN⁻ complex) |
| Chloral hydrate | Zn²⁺ from KCN masking |
| Acid (HCl, H₂SO₄) | Ions from fluoride or amine masking |
| Nitrous acid (HNO₂) | Cu²⁺ from thiourea masking |
Example: In estimation of Bi³⁺ in a mixture with Pb²⁺:
- Add thiourea to mask Cu²⁺ → titrate Bi³⁺ with EDTA
- Then add excess EDTA → demask with HNO₂ → titrate Pb²⁺
(iii) What are Sequestering Agents? Give Examples.
Sequestering agents are chemical agents that combine with metal ions to form stable, water-soluble, non-ionizing complexes, thereby preventing the metal ions from exhibiting their usual chemical behaviour without precipitating them. This is essentially the same as masking — the metal remains "sequestered" in solution.
Examples:
- EDTA (Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) — sequesters Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, Fe³⁺, etc.
- Citric acid — sequesters Fe³⁺ in limit test for iron; prevents precipitation of Fe(OH)₃.
- Sodium hexametaphosphate (Calgon) — sequesters Ca²⁺ and Mg²⁺; softens hard water.
- EGTA — selectively sequesters Ca²⁺ over Mg²⁺.
- DTPA (Diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid) — used in radiopharmaceuticals to sequester heavy metals.
Pharmacopoeial significance: In the limit test for iron, citric acid (iron-free) is added to prevent Fe(OH)₃ from precipitating at the alkaline pH needed for thioglycolic acid reaction — it sequesters Fe³⁺ in solution to allow coloured complex formation.
(iv) What are Chelating and Complexing Agents?
Complexing Agents:
Any substance that forms a coordinate bond (complex) with a metal ion by donating electron pairs. The donor atom is usually N, O, or S.
- Monodentate (one donor atom): NH₃, Cl⁻, CN⁻
- Bidentate (two donor atoms): Ethylenediamine (en)
- Polydentate (multiple donor atoms): EDTA, DTPA
Chelating Agents:
A special type of complexing agent that forms a ring structure (chelate) with the metal ion by donating two or more electron pairs through different atoms in the same molecule. The word "chelate" comes from the Greek chele = claw.
Chelates are thermodynamically more stable than simple complexes (chelate effect) because their formation is entropically favoured (increase in number of particles).
Important Chelating Agents in Pharmaceutical Analysis:
| Agent | Type | Denticity | Metal Ions Complexed |
|---|
| EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) | Aminopolycarboxylic acid | Hexadentate | Most divalent and trivalent metals |
| EGTA | Modified EDTA | Hexadentate | Selectively Ca²⁺ |
| DTPA | Aminopolycarboxylic acid | Octadentate | Actinides, radiopharmaceuticals |
| Ethylenediamine (en) | Diamine | Bidentate | Cu²⁺, Ni²⁺ |
| 8-Hydroxyquinoline (oxine) | Mixed N-O donor | Bidentate | Al³⁺, Mg²⁺ |
| Dimercaprol (BAL) | Dithiol | Bidentate | Hg²⁺, As³⁺, Pb²⁺ (antidote) |
② LONG ANSWER TYPE [10 Marks Each]
(i) What are Complexometric Titrations? List Out Different Types of CT with Examples. How Do You Estimate (Calcium) Gluconate?
Definition
Complexometric titration is a type of volumetric analysis in which the analyte (metal ion) reacts with a complexing agent (chelating agent) to form a stable, soluble complex, and the endpoint is detected by a metal ion indicator that changes colour when the metal is completely complexed by EDTA. It is especially used for the determination of metal ion concentrations.
Principle
EDTA (H₄Y) is a hexadentate chelating agent. Its disodium salt (Na₂H₂Y·2H₂O, mol. wt. 372.24) is used as the titrant. EDTA reacts with metal ions in a 1:1 ratio, regardless of the charge on the metal ion:
M²⁺ + H₂Y²⁻ → MY²⁻ + 2H⁺
M³⁺ + H₂Y²⁻ → MY⁻ + 2H⁺
The stability constant (K_f) of the metal-EDTA complex determines the completeness of the reaction.
EDTA Structure:
- 4 carboxylic acid groups (–COOH) + 2 amine groups (–N) = 6 donor atoms
- Forms highly stable 5-membered chelate rings with metals
Types of Complexometric Titrations
1. Direct Titration (most common)
- Metal ion solution + buffer (pH 10) + metal ion indicator → titrate directly with 0.05 M EDTA.
- Endpoint: Indicator-metal complex (coloured) + EDTA → free indicator (different colour).
- Examples: Ca²⁺ (calcium gluconate), Mg²⁺ (magnesium sulphate), Zn²⁺, Cu²⁺, Pb²⁺.
2. Back Titration
- Excess standard EDTA is added to the metal solution; unreacted EDTA is back-titrated with standard MgSO₄ or ZnSO₄.
- Used when: reaction with EDTA is slow, indicator not available, or precipitation occurs at direct titration pH.
- Example: Al³⁺ (precipitates as Al(OH)₃ at pH 10 → back titration used).
3. Replacement (Substitution) Titration
- Analyte metal (M) is added to excess Mg-EDTA complex → M displaces Mg²⁺:
M + MgY → MY + Mg²⁺
- Released Mg²⁺ is titrated with EDTA.
- Example: Ca²⁺ estimation when indicator gives sluggish endpoint.
4. Indirect Titration
- For anions not directly reactive with EDTA.
- Analyte precipitated with a metal, and the metal is titrated.
- Example: SO₄²⁻ → precipitated as BaSO₄ → excess Ba²⁺ titrated with EDTA.
Metal Ion Indicators
Metal ion indicators are organic dyes that form coloured complexes with metal ions at concentrations just below the equivalence point, and release the metal to EDTA at the equivalence point:
M-Indicator (coloured) + EDTA → M-EDTA + free Indicator (different colour)
Characteristics of a good metal ion indicator:
- Must form coloured complex with the metal ion.
- Colour of M-indicator complex must differ clearly from free indicator.
- M-indicator complex must be less stable than M-EDTA complex.
- Should be soluble and chemically stable.
- Reaction should be selective and reversible.
Common Metal Ion Indicators:
| Indicator | pH Range | Metal ions | Endpoint Colour Change |
|---|
| Eriochrome Black T (EBT) / Mordant Black 11 | 10 | Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, Zn²⁺ | Wine-red → blue |
| Murexide (ammonium purpurate) | 11–12 | Ca²⁺, Cu²⁺, Ni²⁺ | Red/orange → purple/blue |
| Xylenol orange | 1–3 | Bi³⁺, Pb²⁺, Zn²⁺ | Red → yellow |
| Calcon (Eriochrome Blue Black R) | 12–13 | Ca²⁺ (selective) | Red → blue |
Masking and Demasking Agents (summary)
(See VSQ ii above)
Masking: Prevent interference from co-existing metal ions. KCN masks Zn²⁺, Cd²⁺, Ni²⁺ (Ca²⁺ and Mg²⁺ are NOT complexed by CN⁻ → can still be titrated).
Demasking: Formaldehyde or chloral hydrate releases CN⁻-masked metals for subsequent titration.
Estimation of Calcium Gluconate by Complexometric Titration
Molecular formula: C₁₂H₂₂CaO₁₄ | Mol. wt.: 430.37 g/mol
Principle:
Calcium gluconate, being a calcium salt, yields Ca²⁺ ions in solution. EDTA reacts with Ca²⁺ in a 1:1 molar ratio at pH 10 (ammonia–ammonium chloride buffer) to form a stable Ca-EDTA complex. Mordant Black 11 (Eriochrome Black T or similar) is used as indicator.
Ca²⁺ + Indicator → Ca-Indicator (wine-red/pink)
Ca-Indicator + EDTA → Ca-EDTA (stable) + free Indicator (blue) ← endpoint
Preparation of 0.05 M Disodium EDTA:
Dissolve 18.61 g of disodium edetate (Na₂H₂Y·2H₂O, mol. wt. 372.24) in sufficient water and make up to 1000 mL.
Standardization of 0.05 M EDTA:
- Weigh accurately ~0.12 g of previously ignited calcium carbonate (CaCO₃, primary standard).
- Dissolve in minimum dilute HCl.
- Boil to expel CO₂, cool, adjust pH to ~10 with NH₃ buffer.
- Add 0.1 mL of mordant black 11 indicator → wine-red.
- Titrate with 0.05 M EDTA until colour changes to pure blue.
- Factor: 1 mL 0.05 M EDTA ≡ 2.504 mg Ca²⁺.
Assay Procedure:
- Weigh accurately ~0.4 g of calcium gluconate (tablets/powder) into a conical flask.
- Dissolve in 50 mL of warm water (calcium gluconate is sparingly soluble — warm water needed).
- Add 5 mL of 0.05 M disodium EDTA (to prevent Ca²⁺ precipitation).
- Add 10 mL of strong ammonia–ammonium chloride buffer (to adjust pH to ~10).
- Add 2–3 drops of mordant black 11 (or EBT) indicator → wine-red colour.
- Titrate slowly with 0.05 M disodium EDTA with constant swirling.
- Endpoint: Wine-red → pure blue (free indicator colour).
Calculation:
Each 1 mL of 0.05 M EDTA ≡ 0.02242 g of C₁₂H₂₂CaO₁₄
% Calcium Gluconate = (V × M_calculated × 0.02242 × 100) / Weight of sample (g)
(ii) What are the Different Types of EDTA Titration? How Do You Prepare and Standardize 0.05 M Disodium EDTA?
(Types of EDTA titration: covered in 2-i above)
Preparation of 0.05 M Disodium Edetate (Disodium EDTA)
Formula: Na₂H₂C₁₀H₁₂N₂O₈·2H₂O | Mol. wt.: 372.24 g/mol
Procedure:
- Weigh accurately 18.61 g of disodium edetate dihydrate.
- Dissolve in approximately 900 mL of distilled (CO₂-free) water.
- Make up to 1000 mL in a volumetric flask.
- Mix well. Label and store in a well-closed amber bottle.
Note: Disodium EDTA cannot act as a primary standard (hygroscopic nature, variable water content) → must be standardized.
Standardization of 0.05 M Disodium EDTA
Primary standard: Zinc (using zinc metal, assayed ≥99.9%) or Calcium carbonate (CaCO₃, ignited at 1000°C for 1 hr) as per IP/BP.
Procedure (using CaCO₃):
- Accurately weigh ~0.12 g of dried CaCO₃.
- Dissolve in minimum 2 M HCl.
- Boil to remove CO₂, cool.
- Add sufficient water and adjust pH to 10 with ammonia–ammonium chloride buffer.
- Add 0.1 mL of mordant black 11 indicator → wine-red.
- Titrate with 0.05 M EDTA until colour changes to pure blue (persistent for 30 seconds).
Calculation:
Molarity of EDTA = (Weight of CaCO₃ × 1000) / (100.09 × Volume of EDTA in mL)
Factor: 1 mL of 0.05 M EDTA ≡ 2.504 mg Ca ≡ 5.005 mg CaCO₃
(iii) List Out Different Methods in Complexometric Analysis. Add a Note on Masking and Demasking Agents.
(Methods: covered in 2-i above. Masking/demasking: covered in VSQ ii above)
Extended note on Masking and Demasking:
Purpose of masking:
In a real pharmaceutical or biological sample, several metal ions (e.g., Fe³⁺, Al³⁺, Cu²⁺, Zn²⁺) may coexist. EDTA titrates ALL of them non-selectively. Masking allows selective, sequential determination of individual metals in a mixture.
Classic example — Analysis of Bi³⁺/Pb²⁺ mixture:
Step 1: Adjust pH to 1–2 (only Bi³⁺ reacts at this pH with EDTA)
Step 2: Titrate Bi³⁺ directly → V₁ mL EDTA
Step 3: Add NH₃ buffer to raise pH to 5–6, Pb²⁺ now reacts
Step 4: Titrate Pb²⁺ → V₂ mL EDTA
Classic example — Water hardness (Ca²⁺/Mg²⁺ estimation):
- Total hardness: titrate both Ca²⁺ + Mg²⁺ at pH 10 with EBT.
- Ca²⁺ alone: mask Mg²⁺ with KOH (pH 12 → Mg(OH)₂ precipitates) → titrate Ca²⁺ with murexide indicator.
(iv) Write the General Principle Involved in CT. What are Ligands and Their Types?
General Principle
Complexometric titration is based on complex formation equilibria. A chelating agent (EDTA) forms thermodynamically stable, soluble complexes with metal ions:
M^n+ + EDTA^4⁻ ⇌ [M-EDTA]^(n-4)
The stability constant K_f determines the feasibility:
K_f = [MY^(n-4)] / [M^n+][Y^4-]
Higher K_f → tighter complex → more complete reaction → sharper endpoint.
EDTA reacts with metal ions in a strict 1:1 molar ratio irrespective of the charge on the metal.
The titration curve plots pM (= –log[M^n+]) vs. volume of EDTA added:
- Before equivalence: [M] decreases gradually.
- At equivalence: sharp rise in pM.
- After equivalence: pM plateau (excess EDTA controls [M]).
The endpoint is signalled when the metal-indicator complex (weaker) transfers the metal to EDTA (stronger complex), releasing free indicator — colour change.
Ligands and Their Types
A ligand is a molecule or ion that donates one or more lone electron pairs to a central metal atom/ion to form a coordinate or dative bond. The resulting species is called a complex or coordination compound.
Classification by Number of Donor Atoms (Denticity):
| Type | Donor Atoms | Examples |
|---|
| Monodentate | 1 | NH₃, Cl⁻, CN⁻, H₂O |
| Bidentate | 2 | Ethylenediamine (en), Oxalate (C₂O₄²⁻), Glycine |
| Tridentate | 3 | Diethylenetriamine (dien) |
| Tetradentate | 4 | Triethylenetetramine (trien) |
| Hexadentate | 6 | EDTA (4 –COOH + 2 –NH₂ groups) |
| Octadentate | 8 | DTPA |
Classification by Nature of Donor Atom:
- O-donor ligands: H₂O, OH⁻, carboxylate groups (–COO⁻)
- N-donor ligands: NH₃, amines, pyridine, CN⁻
- S-donor ligands: thiourea, dimercaprol (BAL)
- Mixed donor ligands: EDTA (both N and O donors)
Chelate Effect:
Polydentate ligands form more stable complexes than monodentate ligands of similar donor strength due to the favourable entropy change when one polydentate ligand replaces several monodentate ligands:
M(H₂O)₆ + EDTA → M-EDTA + 6H₂O (ΔG more negative — entropy driven)
Ligands of pharmaceutical importance:
- EDTA: Antidote for heavy metal poisoning; analytical titrant.
- Citric acid: Sequesters Ca²⁺/Fe³⁺ in formulations and limit tests.
- Dimercaprol (BAL): Antidote for arsenic, mercury, gold poisoning.
- DTPA: Chelation therapy; diagnostic imaging.
- Deferoxamine: Iron chelation in thalassaemia.
③ SHORT ANSWER TYPE [5 Marks Each]
① What are Complexometric Titrations? Explain Its Principle with Suitable Examples.
Definition: Complexometric titration is a volumetric method in which a metal ion in solution reacts with a chelating agent (most commonly EDTA) to form a stable, soluble complex, with endpoint detected by a metal ion indicator that changes colour when all free metal has been complexed.
Principle:
EDTA (hexadentate) reacts with metals 1:1:
M²⁺ + H₂Y²⁻ → MY²⁻ + 2H⁺
Metal-indicator complex + EDTA → M-EDTA + Free Indicator ← Endpoint
Conditions Required:
- Correct pH (using buffer — pH 10 NH₃/NH₄Cl for most metals)
- Suitable metal ion indicator
- Absence of interfering ions (or masking if present)
Examples:
- Ca²⁺ estimation (Calcium gluconate) — pH 10, EBT indicator, endpoint: wine-red → blue.
- Mg²⁺ estimation (Magnesium sulphate) — pH 10, EBT indicator, endpoint: red → blue.
- Water hardness — total Ca²⁺ + Mg²⁺ titrated with EDTA using EBT.
- Zn²⁺ — direct titration at pH 10, EBT indicator.
② What are Ligands? Explain Types of Ligands with Examples.
(Covered comprehensively in Long Answer 2-iv above)
Summary:
- Monodentate: NH₃, CN⁻ — one bond with metal.
- Bidentate: Ethylenediamine (en), Oxalate — two bonds (chelate ring).
- Polydentate/Chelating: EDTA (hexadentate) — six bonds → very stable complex.
- Chelate effect: Polydentate ligands form more stable complexes due to entropy.
③ How Do You Prepare and Standardize 0.05 M Disodium EDTA?
(Covered fully in Long Answer 2-ii above)
Quick summary:
- Preparation: Dissolve 18.61 g Na₂H₂EDTA·2H₂O in water → make to 1000 mL.
- Standardization: Against ~0.12 g CaCO₃ (primary standard), at pH 10 (NH₃ buffer), EBT indicator, endpoint wine-red → pure blue.
- Factor: 1 mL 0.05 M EDTA ≡ 2.504 mg Ca ≡ 5.005 mg CaCO₃.
④ Write in Detail the Principle for Complexometric Titration with Suitable Examples.
(Covered in Long Answer 2-iv above)
Key points:
- 1:1 metal:EDTA stoichiometry
- Stability constant (K_f) governs completeness
- pH control essential (higher pH → EDTA more ionized → reacts better)
- Metal indicator theory: M-Indicator (weak complex) + EDTA → M-EDTA (strong) + Indicator
- Sharp pM change at equivalence point on titration curve
UNIT – V: Gravimetric Analysis
③ SHORT ANSWER TYPE [5 Marks Each]
① Define Gravimetric Analysis. Write the Importance of It.
Definition:
Gravimetric analysis is a type of quantitative analytical method in which the analyte is converted (by precipitation, volatilization, or electrolysis) into a sparingly soluble compound of known chemical composition, which is then separated, purified, dried or ignited, and accurately weighed. The weight of analyte is calculated from the weight of the precipitate using the gravimetric factor.
Gravimetric factor (GF) = (Molar mass of analyte × stoichiometric ratio) / Molar mass of precipitate
Types of Gravimetric Methods:
- Precipitation gravimetry — analyte precipitated by a reagent; most common type.
- Volatilization gravimetry — analyte converted to a gas and weighed (e.g., CO₂ from carbonate determination).
- Electrodeposition gravimetry — metal deposited electrolytically on a weighed electrode.
- Physical adsorption — rare; used for surface area measurement.
Importance/Advantages:
- High accuracy and precision — considered one of the most accurate classical methods.
- No calibration standards required — absolute method; based only on atomic weights and stoichiometry.
- Error detection is easy — the precipitate can be examined for purity.
- Applicable to diverse analytes — ions, gases, organic/inorganic compounds.
- Pharmacopoeial use — IP/BP/USP use gravimetry for assay of inorganic salts, limit tests (BaSO₄ for sulphate), and residue on ignition.
- Permanent record — the weighed precipitate can be re-examined.
- Foundation for titrimetric methods — gravimetric calibration is used to validate titrimetric methods.
Limitations:
- Time-consuming (precipitation, digestion, filtration, ignition can take hours).
- Not applicable for trace quantities.
- Co-precipitation errors can reduce accuracy.
② Enumerate the Different Steps Involved in Gravimetric Analysis
The complete process of gravimetric (precipitation) analysis involves 7 sequential steps:
Step 1: Preparation of Sample Solution
- Accurately weigh the sample.
- Dissolve completely in appropriate solvent (usually water or dilute acid).
- Adjust volume and pH appropriately.
Step 2: Precipitation
- Add the precipitating agent (reagent) slowly and in slight excess to the hot, dilute sample solution to form a quantitative precipitate.
- Key factors:
- Precipitation from dilute, hot solutions to get large crystals (easier to filter).
- Slow addition with stirring prevents supersaturation.
- Slight excess of reagent ensures completeness.
- Supersaturation = a state where concentration of dissolved salt exceeds its solubility → nucleation begins. High supersaturation → many small crystals (colloidal, hard to filter); low supersaturation → fewer, larger crystals (preferred).
Step 3: Digestion (Ripening)
- Allow the precipitate to stand in the hot mother liquor (at 80–90°C) for 30 min to several hours.
- Small crystallites dissolve and re-precipitate on larger crystals (Ostwald ripening).
- Result: larger, purer, more filterable crystals.
Step 4: Filtration
- Filter through ashless filter paper (for ignition) or a sintered glass crucible (for drying).
- Ashless filter paper leaves no residue on ignition.
- Use a porcelain crucible (ignition up to 1000°C) or a glass crucible (drying at 100–120°C).
- Transfer the precipitate quantitatively — rinse beaker 3 times.
Step 5: Washing
- Wash the precipitate on the filter with a cold, dilute solution of an appropriate electrolyte (not water alone — to prevent peptization).
- Peptization: Washing with pure water may redisperse the precipitate into a colloidal state → passes through the filter paper. Prevented by washing with dilute electrolyte (e.g., dilute HNO₃ for AgCl).
- Wash until the filtrate is free of impurities (test with appropriate reagent).
Step 6: Drying or Ignition
- Drying (110–120°C, 1–2 hrs): When the precipitate is already in a weighable form with known composition (e.g., BaSO₄).
- Ignition (strong heating at 500–1200°C): When the precipitate must be converted to a more stable, well-defined form for weighing.
- Example: CaC₂O₄·H₂O → ignited → CaO; Fe(OH)₃ → ignited → Fe₂O₃.
- Crucible is cooled in a desiccator before weighing.
Step 7: Weighing and Calculation
- Weigh using a high-precision analytical balance (sensitivity to 0.0001 g).
- Calculate:
Weight of analyte = Weight of precipitate × Gravimetric Factor
GF = (nA × Mwt_analyte) / (nP × Mwt_precipitate)
③ Draw a Neat and Labelled Diagram of Gutzeit's Apparatus Used for Arsenic Limit Test and Give the Reaction
Principle of Limit Test for Arsenic (Gutzeit Test):
Arsenic present as arsenic acid (H₃AsO₄) in the sample is reduced to arsine gas (AsH₃) by nascent hydrogen (generated from zinc + dilute HCl). Arsine reacts with mercuric chloride (HgCl₂) paper to form a yellow/brown stain. The intensity of the test stain is compared with a standard stain.
Reactions:
Step 1 — Reduction of As⁵⁺ to As³⁺:
H₃AsO₄ + KI + HCl → H₃AsO₃ + I₂ + H₂O
Step 2 — Reduction of H₃AsO₃ to AsH₃:
H₃AsO₃ + 3[H] → AsH₃↑ + 3H₂O
(nascent H from: Zn + HCl → ZnCl₂ + 2[H])
Step 3 — Reaction with HgCl₂ paper:
AsH₃ + 3HgCl₂ → AsH(HgCl)₂ + 2HCl (yellow stain)
Excess: As(HgCl)₃ → further darkening (brown/black)
Gutzeit's Apparatus (described):
┌─────────────────────────────┐
│ HgCl₂ impregnated paper │ ← Yellow stain appears here
├─────────────────────────────┤
│ Lead acetate cotton wool │ ← Traps H₂S (from sample) — prevents false positive
├─────────────────────────────┤
│ Glass tube (6 mm bore) │
│ ↑ AsH₃ gas passes upward │
├─────────────────────────────┤
│ Conical flask / Woulff │ ← Contains:
│ bottle (125–250 mL) │ - Test/standard As solution
│ │ - Stannated HCl (stannous chloride)
│ │ - KI solution
│ │ - Zinc (granulated)
└─────────────────────────────┘
Reagents:
- Stannated HCl (stannous chloride in HCl): reduces As⁵⁺ → As³⁺; removes traces of Sb.
- Potassium iodide (KI): reduces As⁵⁺ → As³⁺ and ensures complete reduction.
- Zinc (granulated, As-free): generates nascent hydrogen.
- Lead acetate cotton/paper: absorbs H₂S (from any sulphide impurities) — prevents false positive brown stain.
- Mercuric chloride paper: reacts with AsH₃ to form yellow stain.
- Standard arsenic solution (10 ppm As): prepared from As₂O₃.
Procedure:
- Set up the test solution in the Gutzeit bottle with KI, stannous chloride, and HCl.
- Add zinc dust and quickly close the apparatus.
- Immerse the bottle in a water bath (25°C) to maintain uniform gas evolution.
- After 40 minutes, compare the test stain with the standard stain.
Observation:
- Test stain not more intense than standard → sample passes the limit test.
- Test stain more intense → sample fails the limit test.
④ Write the Principle and Reactions Involved in the Limit Test for Lead
Principle:
Lead ions in the test solution react with hydrogen sulphide (H₂S) or sodium sulphide (Na₂S) under acidic conditions (pH 3–4, acetic acid buffer) to form a brown/dark stain or precipitate of lead sulphide (PbS). This brown colour is compared with the colour produced by a standard lead solution (20 ppm Pb) under identical conditions.
Reagent: Hydrogen sulphide solution (H₂S in water) or dilute sodium sulphide (Na₂S).
pH: Adjusted to 3–4 using dilute acetic acid (dilute ammonia for adjustment).
Reaction:
Pb²⁺ + H₂S → PbS↓ (brown precipitate) + 2H⁺
Procedure:
- Prepare Test Solution: Dissolve a specified weight of sample in water and adjust pH to 3–4 with acetic acid buffer. Make up to 25 mL in Nessler cylinder.
- Prepare Standard Solution: Take 2 mL of Lead Standard Solution (10 ppm Pb) → 20 µg Pb → make to 25 mL with the same buffer.
- To both cylinders, add 10 mL of hydrogen sulphide solution (freshly prepared).
- Allow to stand for 5 minutes.
- View the cylinders transversally in daylight against a white background.
Observation:
- Test colour is not more intense (not darker) than standard → passes limit test.
- Test colour is more intense → fails limit test.
Standard: 20 ppm Pb (20 µg Pb in 25 mL test).
⑤ Write the Procedure and Principle with Reactions for the Limit Test for Sulphate
Principle:
The sulphate ions in the test solution react with barium chloride (BaCl₂) in the presence of dilute hydrochloric acid to form a white turbidity (precipitate) of barium sulphate (BaSO₄). The turbidity produced by the test solution is compared with the turbidity produced by a standard sulphate solution (standard opalescence). This is a comparative, semi-quantitative limit test.
Reaction:
SO₄²⁻ + BaCl₂ → BaSO₄↓ (white turbidity) + 2Cl⁻
Reagents:
- Dilute HCl: To prevent precipitation of BaCO₃ or BaHPO₄ (acidification ensures specificity).
- Barium chloride solution (25% w/v): Precipitating agent.
- Standard sulphate solution (100 ppm SO₄²⁻): Prepared from potassium sulphate (K₂SO₄).
Procedure:
- Prepare Test Solution: Dissolve specified weight of sample in 10 mL of distilled water. Add 1 mL of dilute HCl. Make to 15 mL.
- Prepare Standard Solution: Take 1.5 mL of 100 ppm sulphate standard → 150 µg SO₄²⁻ → add 1 mL dilute HCl, make to 15 mL.
- To both cylinders, add 0.5 mL of 25% BaCl₂ solution.
- Mix immediately and allow to stand for 5 minutes.
- Compare the turbidity transversally in diffused daylight against a black background.
Observation:
- Test turbidity not more than standard → sample passes limit test.
- Test turbidity greater than standard → sample fails limit test.
Limit in IP: Usually ≤ 150 ppm SO₄²⁻ (varies per monograph).
⑥ Write the Use of Citric Acid, Thioglycolic Acid, and Ammonia in the Iron Limit Test
Limit Test for Iron (IP) is based on the formation of a reddish-purple complex between Fe³⁺ ions and thioglycolic acid in alkaline medium (ammoniacal solution).
Reaction:
Fe³⁺ + Thioglycolic acid (HSCH₂COOH) + NH₄OH → Fe-thioglycolate complex (reddish-purple/pink)
| Reagent | Role |
|---|
| Citric acid (iron-free) | Acts as a sequestering/masking agent — prevents Fe³⁺ from precipitating as Fe(OH)₃ at the alkaline pH required. Keeps Fe³⁺ in solution as a soluble citrate complex so that thioglycolic acid can react with it uniformly. Without citric acid, Fe(OH)₃ would precipitate at pH >4, giving a false negative or no colour. |
| Thioglycolic acid (HSCH₂COOH) | The chromogenic reagent — reacts with Fe³⁺ to form a reddish-purple coloured complex that is visually compared with the standard. It is highly sensitive and selective for iron in alkaline medium. |
| Strong Ammonia solution (NH₃) | Provides the alkaline pH necessary for the formation of the coloured Fe-thioglycolate complex. Also acts as a buffer to maintain alkalinity throughout the test. The concentration is typically 10% w/w (iron-free). |
Procedure Summary:
- Dissolve sample in 10 mL of iron-free water in Nessler cylinder.
- Add 2 mL of citric acid solution → prevents Fe(OH)₃ precipitation.
- Add 0.1 mL of thioglycolic acid → reacts with Fe³⁺.
- Make alkaline with strong ammonia solution → reddish-purple colour develops.
- Make to 20 mL. Allow to stand 5 min.
- Compare colour with standard (20 ppm Fe) transversally against white background.
⑦ Give the Role of Acetic Acid and Ammonia in the Limit Test for Heavy Metals
Limit Test for Heavy Metals is based on the reaction of heavy metal ions (Pb²⁺, Hg²⁺, Bi³⁺, Cu²⁺, Sb³⁺, Sn²⁺, Ag⁺, etc.) with hydrogen sulphide (H₂S) or thioacetamide to form brown or dark-coloured sulphide precipitates. The test colour is compared with a lead standard.
| Reagent | Role |
|---|
| Dilute Acetic Acid | Adjusts the pH to 3–4 (slightly acidic). At this pH, H₂S reacts selectively with heavy metals (those with Ksp of sulphides lower than at neutral pH) while alkali metals, alkaline earth metals (Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺), and Al³⁺ do not interfere (their sulphides are soluble at this pH). Acetic acid provides the optimal environment for heavy metal sulphide precipitation. It also prevents masking of lead by forming a soluble acetate rather than an insoluble salt. |
| Dilute Ammonia | Used to adjust/raise the pH to the correct range (3–4 as per IP) after acidification with acetic acid. Works together with acetic acid to establish an acetate buffer (pH ~3.5) which maintains consistent, reproducible pH during the test. Ammonia neutralises excess acid added during sample dissolution. |
| Hydrogen Sulphide (H₂S) | The chromogenic precipitating agent for all heavy metals → forms coloured sulphides. |
Reaction:
Pb²⁺ (as representative of heavy metals) + H₂S → PbS↓ (brown) + 2H⁺
Cu²⁺ + H₂S → CuS↓ (black) + 2H⁺
Bi³⁺ + H₂S → Bi₂S₃↓ (dark brown) + 6H⁺
Procedure Summary:
- Dissolve sample in water → add 2 mL dilute acetic acid → adjust pH to 3–4 with dilute ammonia → make to 25 mL.
- Standard: take 2 mL of 10 ppm Pb standard → treat identically.
- Add 10 mL freshly prepared H₂S solution to both.
- Stand 5 min → compare colours transversally.
⑧ What is the Basis for Fixing the Limits for Impurities?
The limits for impurities in pharmacopoeial standards (IP, BP, USP) are fixed based on the following rationale:
1. Toxicological/Pharmacological Basis:
- Limits are set based on the toxic threshold of the impurity for human use.
- Example: Arsenic limit (≤2–5 ppm) — set based on chronic toxicity; lead limit (≤10 ppm) based on neurotoxicity data.
- Heavy metals expressed as lead equivalent (ppm Pb).
2. Therapeutic Dose Considerations:
- If a drug is given in large doses chronically, the limit for an impurity is stricter (lower).
- If given in small/infrequent doses, higher impurity levels may be acceptable.
- Formula used: Limit (ppm) = (Permissible daily intake of impurity × 1000) / (Maximum daily dose of drug)
3. Manufacturing Feasibility:
- Limits are set at practically achievable levels using Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP).
- An impurity limit that cannot be consistently achieved by any known manufacturing process is not set.
4. Analytical Sensitivity:
- Limits must be within the detection range of the specified official test.
- Example: Gutzeit test detects As down to ~1 µg; sulphate test detects ~50 µg SO₄²⁻.
5. Historical Precedent and Clinical Experience:
- Limits established over decades of clinical use, where no adverse effects were observed.
- Regulatory agencies (CDSCO, MHRA, FDA) review post-marketing data to update limits.
6. ICH Guidelines (Q3A, Q3B, Q3C):
- For process impurities: 0.10% (1000 ppm) → identify; 0.15% (1500 ppm) → qualify.
- For residual solvents: Class 1 (carcinogens) — very low/avoid; Class 2 — limited daily exposure; Class 3 — low toxicity.
7. Comparison Method:
- In pharmacopoeial limit tests, the test result is always compared with a standard prepared simultaneously under identical conditions — ensuring fair, reproducible, objective comparison.
- Limits expressed in ppm (µg/mL or µg/g).
All answers are written at B.Pharm (First/Second Year) university level, aligned with IP/BP pharmaceutical analysis syllabus for Units IV and V.