A substance used in volumetric analysis to create accurate solutions for titrations requires exceptional purity, stability, and a high molecular weight to minimize weighing errors. This substance, often a solid, should also be readily soluble and not prone to absorbing moisture from the air (hygroscopic). Potassium hydrogen phthalate (KHP) is a common example used to standardize solutions of bases.
The employment of these compounds is critical for ensuring the reliability of quantitative chemical analyses. By using a substance with well-defined properties, the concentration of a titrant can be precisely determined. Historically, their development facilitated the advancement of accurate chemical measurements, leading to improved quality control in various industries and scientific research.