Learn difference between Iodometric and Iodimetric titration with case studies and FAQs

In Iodometric titration, the titrant is iodine (I₂), which is produced locally by reaction with iodide (I⁻) ions of the sample, whereas in Iodimetric titration, the titrant is the iodine solution itself, which is titrated directly against the analyte.
Related:
| Feature | Iodometric Titration | Iodimetric Titration |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Indirect | Direct |
| Iodine Role | Produced in reaction | Used as titrant |
| Titrant | Sodium thiosulfate | Iodine solution |
| Used to Analyse | Oxidizing agents | Reducing agents |
| Example Reaction | Cu²⁺ + I⁻ → CuI + I₂ → titrated | SO₂ + I₂ → H₂SO₄ + HI |
Study: Determination of Copper(II) Content in Brass Using Iodometric Titration
Principle: Copper(II) ions (Cu²⁺) in the brass sample oxidise iodide (I⁻) to iodine (I₂). The liberated iodine is then titrated with sodium thiosulfate.
2Cu2++ 4I– = 2CuI (s) + I2
I2 + 2S2O32- = 2I– + S4O62-
Note:
The amount of sodium thiosulfate used corresponds to the iodine liberated, which in turn reflects the copper content. Results give the % Cu in brass.
Objective: To determine the amount of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) in commercial fruit juice samples.
Principle: Ascorbic acid is a reducing agent. It reduces iodine to iodide, and itself gets oxidized to dehydroascorbic acid. Iodine is directly titrated into the juice until all ascorbic acid is consumed.
C6H8O6 + I2 = C6H6O6 + 2HI
The volume of iodine used is directly proportional to the amount of vitamin C. The Final result is given as mg of ascorbic acid per 100 mL of juice.
Related:
Starch forms a deep blue complex with free iodine (I₂), making it highly sensitive and visible even at very low iodine concentrations. It helps detect the endpoint of the titration—when iodine is just about to disappear (in iodometry) or when excess iodine appears (in iodimetry)
Sodium thiosulfate is a strong and reliable reducing agent that reacts precisely with iodine to form iodide. It’s stable, easy to handle, and gives accurate, sharp endpoints with starch, making it ideal for iodometric titrations.
No, they cannot.
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Appreciate Dr. Pramodji to explore his rich knowledge and practical experience to the society for the beneficial through Pharma Guru.
Very useful