Question:medium

Compounds that should not be used as primary standards in titrimetric analysis are : A. Na\( _2 \)Cr\( _2 \)O\( _7 \) B. Oxalic acid C. NaOH D. FeSO\( _4 \).6H\( _2 \)O E. Sodium tetraborate Choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below :

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Remember the key characteristics of a good primary standard: high purity, stability (non-hygroscopic, not easily oxidized or decomposed), known stoichiometry, and preferably a high molar mass. Evaluate each given compound against these criteria to determine if it's suitable as a primary standard.
Updated On: Jan 14, 2026
  • B and D Only
  • D and E Only
  • C, D and E Only
  • A, C and D Only
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

In titrimetric analysis, a primary standard is a highly pure reagent used for solution preparation and instrument calibration. To be a primary standard, a compound must possess the following characteristics:

  1. High purity: Defined and known purity level.
  2. Stability: Resistance to moisture absorption and air reactions.
  3. Non-hygroscopic: Does not attract atmospheric moisture.
  4. High molar mass: Minimizes weighing errors.
  5. Availability and cost: Readily available and inexpensive.

Evaluation of the provided options:

  1. Na\(_2\)Cr\(_2\)O\(_7\) (Sodium dichromate): While not hygroscopic, its high toxicity makes it hazardous and thus unsuitable as a primary standard.
  2. Oxalic acid: Frequently employed as a primary standard due to its reasonable stability and non-hygroscopic nature, though drying is necessary prior to use.
  3. NaOH (Sodium hydroxide): Hygroscopic, it absorbs atmospheric moisture, altering its concentration. Consequently, it is not appropriate as a primary standard.
  4. FeSO\(_4\).6H\(_2\)O (Ferrous sulfate heptahydrate): Not utilized as a primary standard because it is unstable and prone to oxidation in air.
  5. Sodium tetraborate (Borax): A suitable primary standard, meeting most required criteria.

Based on this evaluation, the compounds unsuitable for use as primary standards in titrimetric analysis are:

  1. Na\(_2\)Cr\(_2\)O\(_7\)
  2. NaOH
  3. FeSO\(_4\).6H\(_2\)O

Therefore, the correct selection is: A, C and D Only

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