Acids & Bases Nomenclature Lab
Introduction
In this nomenclature unit students have learned how to write names and formulas for ionic compounds, including acids
and bases. In this lab pH paper will be used to test the acidity/alkalinity of several acids and bases. The pH scale runs
from 0 to 14, with each number assigned a different color. At the bottom of the scale sits red, which represents the most
acidic, and a dark blue at its opposite end represents 14 and alkalinity. In the middle zone, the pH scale becomes neutral.
I.
Objectives:
TEK 7A: Name ionic compounds containing acids and bases using International Union
Chemistry (IUPAC) nomenclature rules.
TEK 7B: Write the chemical formulas of ionic compounds containing acids and bases.
Materials
2 well plates
4 unknown acids
4 unknown bases
of Pure and Applied
Pipette
pH paper
II. Safety
Procedure
1. Obtain all needed materials
2. Pipette 5 drops of an unknown acid in the well plate and place a strip of pH paper in the well.
3. IMMEDIATELY analyze the pH paper and record the results on data chart.
4. Repeat with all of the unknown acids and bases.
III. Data
Unknown
Acids
Acids
pH
Value
Acidity Ranking
(1-4, # 1 being most acidic)
Formula
Name
1
2
3
4
Most Acidic to least acidic acids used: Sulfuric Acid, Phosphoric Acid, Hydrochloric Acid, Acetic Acid
Bases
Unknown
Bases
pH Value
Alkalinity Ranking
(1-4, # 1 being most
alkaline/basic)
Formula
Name
1
2
3
4
Most Alkaline to least alkaline bases used: Ca(OH)2, NH4OH, KOH, NaOH
IV. Conclusion Questions
1. What is the difference between a binary acid and an oxyacid?
2. Which acids used in this experiment are oxyacids?
3. H3PO4 and HNO3 are common industrial acids. Write the name of the acid and list 2 uses of each.
4. List 5 properties that can identify how bases differ from acids.