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What it is. This sulfuric acid solution is a 2.0 N (1.0 M) volumetric standard, supplied in a 500 mL size. It is a clear, colorless acid for titrations, sample digestion, acidification, and method reagents that specify 2 N or 1 M sulfuric acid.
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Normality versus molarity. Sulfuric acid releases two hydrogen ions per molecule, so its normality is twice its molarity. A 2.0 N solution is therefore 1.0 M, containing about 98.08 g of H2SO4 per liter, and each milliliter neutralizes 2.0 milliequivalents of base, equal to 80.00 mg of sodium hydroxide (calculated).
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A strong, non-oxidizing titrant at working strength. Dilute sulfuric acid behaves as a strong acid in titrations of bases. Unlike hydrochloric acid, it is not volatile, so standard solutions hold their strength well, and it is the preferred acid for permanganate titrations, where chloride would interfere.
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One-molar convenience. Because 2.0 N sulfuric acid is exactly 1 M, it simplifies stoichiometric calculations and is a common strength for preparing reagents, acidifying reactions, and teaching labs.
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Redox and digestion work. Two-normal sulfuric acid provides strong, non-oxidizing acidity for permanganate and dichromate titrations and for acid digestions where volatile acids would be lost during heating.
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Hazard level. At 1 M, sulfuric acid is corrosive to metals and can irritate or damage skin and eyes. Comparable volumetric solutions are classified at least as corrosive to metals. Wear goggles and gloves and handle it with care.
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Preparing working strengths. Diluting 250 mL of 2.0 N sulfuric acid to 1 liter gives 0.5 N, and 50 mL to 1 liter gives 0.1 N (calculated). Always add acid to water and standardize working solutions before critical use.
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Standardization. Verify concentration against a primary standard base such as dried sodium carbonate, using methyl orange or a mixed indicator, or against standardized sodium hydroxide with phenolphthalein.
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Where it is used. Laboratories use 2.0 N sulfuric acid for titrations, acidifying permanganate and dichromate reactions, sample digestion, method reagents specifying 1 M or 2 N acid, preparing weaker solutions, and teaching labs.
Technical Specifications
| Chemical Name |
Sulfuric acid, aqueous solution |
| CAS Numbers |
7664-93-9 (sulfuric acid); 7732-18-5 (water) |
| EC Number (H2SO4) |
231-639-5 |
| Synonyms |
Oil of vitriol (concentrated), battery acid (dilute), H2SO4 solution |
| Formula (active) |
H2SO4 |
| Molecular Weight (active) |
98.08 g/mol |
| Equivalent Weight |
49.04 (diprotic; normal = 2 x molar) |
| Concentration |
2.0 N (1.0 M) |
| H2SO4 Content |
About 98.08 g/L (calculated) |
| Neutralizing Capacity |
1.00 mL = 2.0 meq; 80.00 mg NaOH (calculated) |
| Hazard Statement (comparable 1.0 M solutions) |
H290 (may be corrosive to metals); confirm additional statements on SDS |
| Appearance |
Clear, colorless liquid |
| Exposure Limit (mist) |
OSHA PEL and NIOSH REL: 1 mg/m³ TWA |
| Package Size |
500 mL |
Applications / Common Uses
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Titrations: Titrates bases at moderate concentration.
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Redox titrations: Acidifies permanganate and dichromate reactions.
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Sample digestion: Supplies non-volatile acid for heating steps.
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Reagent preparation: Prepares acidic reagents at 1 M.
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Teaching labs: Simplifies stoichiometry with a 1 M acid.
Storage, Handling & Shipping
Store tightly closed in a corrosives cabinet away from bases, reactive metals, organic materials, and water-reactive substances. When diluting, always add acid slowly to water, never water to acid, since dilution releases heat.
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Incompatible materials: Bases, reactive metals (release hydrogen), organic materials, oxidizers and reducers, and cyanides or sulfides.
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Exposure limit (sulfuric acid mist): OSHA PEL and NIOSH REL: 1 mg/m³ TWA.
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Spill response: Contain and neutralize with sodium bicarbonate or an acid spill kit, then rinse with water.
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First aid: Skin or eyes: flush with water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention.
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GHS signal word: Danger or Warning depending on concentration; .
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DOT / shipping: UN2796, Sulfuric acid, Class 8.
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