To dilute acetic acid, you add water to reduce its concentration. A common method to create a specific dilution, such as a 5% solution, involves carefully mixing measured volumes of concentrated acetic acid with distilled water.
Making a 5% Acetic Acid Solution
Based on the provided reference, you can prepare a 5% dilute acetic acid solution using the following method:
Carefully add 5 mL of glacial acetic acid into 95 mL of distilled water and mix thoroughly.
This ratio provides a practical way to achieve a common dilution percentage used for various applications.
Step-by-Step Dilution Process
Follow these steps to create your 5% acetic acid solution:
- Gather Materials: You will need glacial acetic acid, distilled water, appropriate measuring tools (like graduated cylinders), and a suitable container for mixing and storage.
- Measure Acid: Accurately measure 5 mL of glacial acetic acid.
- Measure Water: Accurately measure 95 mL of distilled water.
- Combine Carefully: Slowly and carefully add the 5 mL of glacial acetic acid to the 95 mL of distilled water. It is important to always add acid to water, not the other way around, as this helps dissipate the heat generated during the mixing process and reduces splashing risk.
- Mix Thoroughly: Gently mix the solution until it is uniform.
Dilution Ratio for 5% Acetic Acid
Here's a simple breakdown of the ratio used:
| Component | Volume |
|---|---|
| Glacial Acetic Acid | 5 mL |
| Distilled Water | 95 mL |
| Approximate Total | 100 mL |
This ratio results in approximately 100 mL of a 5% (v/v - volume/volume) acetic acid solution.
Important Considerations When Diluting
- Safety First: Glacial acetic acid is highly concentrated and corrosive. Always handle it with care in a well-ventilated area. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as chemical-resistant gloves and eye protection.
- Use Distilled Water: Using distilled or deionized water is recommended to avoid introducing impurities into your solution, especially if the dilution is for scientific or specific chemical applications.
- Accuracy: Use accurate measuring tools to ensure you achieve the desired concentration.
Why Dilute Acetic Acid?
Concentrated acetic acid (glacial acetic acid) is very strong and corrosive. Diluting it makes it safer to handle and suitable for a wide range of applications, such as:
- Household cleaning (like vinegar, which is typically 4-7% acetic acid)
- Laboratory reagents
- Specific industrial processes
By following the method provided, you can effectively dilute glacial acetic acid to a safer and usable concentration like 5%.
