IODOMETRY
Iodometry, also known as iodometric titration, is a quantitative analytical technique used to
determine the concentration of oxidizing agents in a solution. This method involves the
indirect titration of iodine liberated by the reaction between the analyte and an excess of
iodide ions. The endpoint of the titration is typically indicated by a color change facilitated by
a starch indicator.
Principle:
The principle of iodometry is based on redox reactions where an oxidizing agent reacts with
iodide ions (I⁻) to produce iodine (I₂). The liberated iodine is then titrated with a reducing
agent, usually sodium thiosulfate (Na₂S₂O₃), which reduces the iodine back to iodide ions.
The amount of sodium thiosulfate used corresponds to the concentration of the oxidizing
agent in the sample. The reactions involved are:
1. Oxidation Reaction:
Oxidizing agent+2I−→I2
2. Titration Reaction:
I2+2Na2S2O3→2NaI+Na2S4O6
Procedure:
A general procedure for iodometric titration includes the following steps:
1. Preparation of the Sample:
o Dissolve the sample containing the oxidizing agent in a suitable solvent,
typically water.
o Adjust the pH to slightly acidic conditions to facilitate the reaction.
2. Addition of Potassium Iodide (KI):
o Add an excess of KI to the sample solution.
o The oxidizing agent oxidizes iodide ions to liberate iodine, imparting a
brownish-yellow color to the solution.
3. Titration with Sodium Thiosulfate:
o Titrate the liberated iodine with a standardized sodium thiosulfate solution.
o As sodium thiosulfate reduces iodine to iodide, the solution's color fades.
4. Endpoint Detection with Starch Indicator:
o Near the endpoint, add a starch solution as an indicator.
o The starch forms a blue complex with iodine.
o Continue titration until the blue color disappears, indicating the endpoint.
5. Calculation:
o Calculate the concentration of the oxidizing agent based on the volume of
sodium thiosulfate solution used.
Applications:
Iodometry is widely used in various fields for the analysis of oxidizing agents. Some notable
applications include:
Determination of Chlorine Content: Used to measure the concentration of chlorine
in water treatment facilities and swimming pools.
Analysis of Hydrogen Peroxide: Employed to determine the concentration of
hydrogen peroxide in disinfectants and bleaching agents.
Estimation of Copper(II) Ions: Utilized in the quantitative analysis of copper in
metallurgical processes and alloy compositions.
Demerits:
While iodometry is a valuable analytical technique, it has certain limitations:
Sensitivity to Light and Temperature: Iodine is volatile and can evaporate, leading
to inaccuracies. Exposure to strong light and elevated temperatures can exacerbate
this issue.
Interference from Reducing Agents: The presence of reducing agents in the sample
can react with the liberated iodine, causing errors in the titration results.
pH Sensitivity: The reactions involved are pH-dependent. Incorrect pH levels can
lead to incomplete reactions or side reactions, affecting the accuracy of the analysis.