How to calculate the equivalent weight of Na₂CO₃?

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Detailed Solution

The equivalent weight of sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃) equals its molar mass divided by the number of replaceable hydrogen ions, which is 2, giving 53 g per equivalent.

Na₂CO₃ acts as a base because it can neutralize two moles of acid (each molecule accepts two H⁺ ions). Its molar mass = (2 × 23) + 12 + (3 × 16) = 106 g/mol. Since it replaces two hydrogen ions, the equivalent weight = molar mass / 2 = 106 / 2 = 53 g/eq.

This concept is used in titration calculations for acid–base reactions and determining normality. For example, in Na₂CO₃ + 2HCl → 2NaCl + H₂O + CO₂, one mole of sodium carbonate reacts with two moles of HCl. Equivalent weight simplifies stoichiometric relations for practical chemistry.

Formula

Equivalent weight = Molar mass / n, where n = number of replaceable H⁺ or OH⁻ ions or electrons transferred.

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