Difference between Equivalence Point and End Point

When we talk about a chemical reaction, it is essential to know the key points used to describe how the reaction proceeds. In this sense, there are two concepts that are often confused: the equivalence point and the end point.

Equivalence Point

The equivalence point of a chemical reaction is the point at which the amount of reactant added equals the amount of reactant consumed. In other words, it is the point where the reaction is already has arrived at a stoichiometric ratio.

This point can be determined experimentally through the use of indicators. Indicators are substances that change color in the presence of a specific amount of H+ or OH- ions. The equivalence point is the point at which the indicator changes color.

Final point

The end point is the point at which the titration stops. It is the point at which a small amount of additional reagent is added to ensure that the equivalence point has been reached. In other words, it is the point at which “final drops” of reagent are added to ensure that the reaction is complete.

It is important to note that the end point is not necessarily equal to the equivalence point. In reality, the end point can be before or after the equivalence point. The goal of the endpoint is simply to confirm that the equivalence point has been reached.

Conclusion

In summary, the equivalence point is the point at which the amount of reagent added is equal to the amount of reagent consumed, while the end point is the point at which the titration is stopped by adding a small amount of additional reagent.

It is important to note that while the equivalence point can be determined precisely using indicators, the end point may have some margin of error. Therefore, it is essential to understand the difference between both concepts to properly understand how the titration of a chemical reaction is carried out.

References

• Clark, J. (2020). Equivalence Point vs. Endpoint. Retrieved from https://www.chemguide.co.uk/physical/redoxeqia/equivalence.html
• University of Waterloo. (sf). Equivalence Point and Endpoint. Retrieved from https://uwaterloo.ca/chem13-news-magazine/november-2001/equivalence-point-and-endpoint

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