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  Home > JCE Print > Journal of Chemical Education > Issues > 2005  > March  >
In the Classroom
Species Distribution Diagrams in the Copper–Ammonia System: An Updated and Expanded Demonstration Illustrating Complex Equilibria
Adam R. Johnson, Tyrel M. McQueen, and Kit T. Rodolfa
Department of Chemistry, Harvey Mudd College, Claremont, CA 91711
Cover
March 2005
Vol. 82 No. 3
p. 408
Abstract
The addition of aqueous ammonia to a dilute solution of copper sulfate leads to a complex series of coupled equilibria involving acid–base chemistry, precipitation, and complex ion formation. There are 12 chemical species that must be considered to solve the problem mathematically. Although it is possible to solve the complete system of equations analytically, judicious use of intuitive simplifications and assumptions about the chemical system allow a simpler set of equations to be solved. This provides an opportunity for students to test their chemical intuition. Comparison of the calculated results reveals no major differences between the two mathematical methods. The mathematical results also correspond well with experimental data.
Supplement
Experimental pH data, devivation of the simplified set of equations for Mathcad, Mathcad documentation, and devivation of the simplified equations for region I, II, and III are available.
*  Contents JCE2005p0408W.doc (Microsoft Word)
*  Download
JCE2005p0408W.pdf

JCE2005p0408W.zip
More Information
*  Citation
 Johnson, Adam R.; McQueen, Tyrel M.; Rodolfa, Kit T. J. Chem. Educ. 2005 82 408.
*  Keywords
 Aqueous Solution Chemistry; Coordination Chemistry; Demonstrations; Equilibrium; Inorganic Chemistry
*  History
 Created:
Last Updated:		 February 2, 2005
February 16, 2005
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