Acid Value Formula:
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Definition: The Acid Value in Phytochemistry is defined as the number of milligrams of potassium hydroxide required to neutralize the free fatty acids present in one gram of fat or oil.
Purpose: It helps determine the quality and purity of plant oils and fats, as higher acid values indicate more free fatty acids and potential degradation.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates how much KOH is needed to neutralize the free fatty acids in a given sample, normalized to 1 gram of material.
Details: Acid value is crucial for assessing oil quality, detecting rancidity, and ensuring proper processing of plant materials in phytochemical studies.
Tips: Enter the volume of KOH used (in ml), the normality of the KOH solution, and the sample weight (in grams). All values must be > 0.
Q1: What's a typical acid value range for plant oils?
A: Fresh oils typically have values below 4 mg KOH/g, while values above 10 indicate significant degradation.
Q2: Why is KOH used for this measurement?
A: Potassium hydroxide is a strong base that effectively neutralizes free fatty acids, and its molecular weight (56.1) makes calculations convenient.
Q3: Can I use NaOH instead of KOH?
A: Yes, but you would need to adjust the calculation since NaOH has a different molecular weight (40.0).
Q4: How should I prepare my sample?
A: The sample should be representative and properly homogenized. For solid materials, they may need to be dissolved in an appropriate solvent.
Q5: What affects acid value measurements?
A: Factors include sample freshness, storage conditions, exposure to light/heat, and the presence of moisture.