A common titration experiment performed in the high school laboratory involves determination of the concentration of HCl. We have developed a titration experiment to determine the total acid content of sour candies, such as lemonheads, sour patch kids, and pixy stix. Sour candies contain one or more of the following acids – malic acid, citric acid, tartaric acid, and fumaric acid. Running of this experiment provides a unique opportunity to discuss candy formulations. Sour candy titration can be easily adapted to engage students at a variety levels, ranging from basic titration calculations for introductory high school level to weak acid equilibrium constant investigations for advanced placement and university level students.

Determining total acid content in sour candies

250th National Meeting (2015)

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