Name:__________________ per:____
Activity: Neutralization
Problem: A train car carrying hydrochloric acid (HCl) is believed to have leaked part of its contents near two
different wells that provide drinking water for your town. You have been hired to test the local tap water to
determine which well water (A1 or A2) is more acidic. You have tried pH paper, but the pH’s are too close to tell
the difference with this method. You will use a basic neutralization reaction to determine which drinking water is
more acidic.
Procedures: At your lab station
Data:
Contaminated Water Source
# of Drops of NaOH
A1
A2
Analysis:
1. Vinegar, HC2H3O2, is known as acetic acid. Chemically, what was the purpose of adding NaOH to the
vinegar in this lab?
2. Complete the following neutralization reaction performed in the activity:
HC2H3O2 + NaOH 
3. What was the purpose of adding phenolphthalein to the acid solution?
4. Explain which water source was more acidic & how you were able to determine your conclusion.
Name:__________________ per:____
Activity: Neutralization
Problem: A train car carrying hydrochloric acid (HCl) is believed to have leaked part of its contents near two
different wells that provide drinking water for your town. You have been hired to test the local tap water to
determine which well water (A1 or A2) is more acidic. You have tried pH paper, but the pH’s are too close to tell
the difference with this method. You will use a basic neutralization reaction to determine which drinking water is
more acidic.
Procedures: At your lab station
Data:
Contaminated Water Source
# of Drops of NaOH
A1
A2
Analysis:
1. Vinegar, HC2H3O2, is known as acetic acid. Chemically, what was the purpose of adding NaOH to the
vinegar in this lab?
2. Complete the following neutralization reaction performed in the activity:
HC2H3O2 + NaOH 
3. What was the purpose of adding phenolphthalein to the acid solution?
4. Explain which water source was more acidic & how you were able to determine your conclusion.