P

Primary Standard

Expert Written | Fact Checked | Sources Cited | AllChemicals Editorial Team

What is Primary Standard?

A primary standard is a highly pure, stable substance with known composition that is used to prepare standard solutions of accurately known concentration (for calibration in titrations). A primary standard must have high purity, be stable in air, have a high molar mass (to reduce weighing errors), and react completely and stoichiometrically with the analyte. Potassium hydrogen phthalate (KHP) is a common primary standard for acid–base titrations.

Key Facts

Term Primary Standard

Frequently Asked Questions

A primary standard is a highly pure, stable substance with known composition that is used to prepare standard solutions of accurately known concentration (for calibration in titrations). A primary standard must have high purity, be stable in air, have a high molar mass (to reduce weighing errors), and react completely and stoichiometrically with the analyte. Potassium hydrogen phthalate (KHP) is a common primary standard for acid–base titrations.

More "P" Terms

View all "P" terms →
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Editorial standards: Chemical data is sourced from peer-reviewed literature, CAS Registry, NIST WebBook, and PubChem. Safety information reflects guidance from OSHA, ECHA, and IAEA. For educational purposes only — always consult official SDS documentation and qualified professionals before handling chemicals.