Titration

noun

/taɪˈtreɪʃən/

An analytical technique in which a solution of known concentration (titrant) is gradually added to a solution of unknown concentration until the reaction reaches completion, typically indicated by a colour change.

✍️ Usage in a UPSC answer

Effective fiscal policy resembles a delicate titration: the state must add stimulus in measured, incremental doses, halting the instant inflationary pressures signal that the economy has reached its point of equilibrium.

Synonyms

calibrationmeasurementgaugingassayquantificationgradation

Antonyms

guessworkestimationapproximation

🌱 Word Family

titrate (v), titrated (adj), titrating (v pres.p), titrant (n), titrimetric (adj)

🔡 Root

French titre = standard, fineness of alloyed gold; titrer = to determine standard strength; -ation = noun suffix

📜 Etymology

From French titrer (to determine the standard strength), from titre (standard, fineness of alloyed gold); the noun titration first appeared in the 1860s.

🧠 Memory Hook

Think "TITLE" + "ration": the original titre meant the title or grade of gold's purity, and you ration in a reagent drop by drop until the measure is exact.

⚗️ General Science 📖 Seen in: Acids, Bases, Salts & Everyday Chemist...

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