What is a "standard solution"?

A solution of known molarity is called a standard solution. Its concentration is determined by a process known as standardization. If you have a primary standard (a compound which is very pure, stable, nonhygroscopic, and with a high molecular weight) you can prepare a standard solution simply by dissolving a known amount of the compound in a known volume of liquid. If you don't have such a compound, you'll have to standardize your solution against a primary standard. For example, you can standardize a silver nitrate solution by using it to titrate NaCl, which is a primary standard.

Author: Fred Senese senese@antoine.frostburg.edu

Copyright © 1997-2001 by Fred Senese
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Last Revised 02/23/18.URL: http://antoine.frostburg.edu/chem/senese/101-hidden/moles/faq/standard-solutions.shtml