What does a titration curve illustrate?

A titration curve illustrates the change in pH as a titrant is added to a solution. This graphical representation is crucial in analytical chemistry as it provides insights into the acid-base behavior of the solution being titrated. As the titrant is gradually added, the pH of the solution changes in response to the amount of titrant introduced.

Typically, the curve displays a sharp increase in pH at the equivalence point, where the amount of titrant added is stoichiometrically equivalent to the amount of substance being analyzed. This section of the curve is particularly useful for determining the endpoint of the titration, enabling chemists to calculate concentrations of unknown solutions.

Other options do not accurately describe the function of a titration curve. While time-concentration relationships and equilibrium constants are important in chemistry, they do not represent the specific pH changes associated with adding titrants in titration processes. Additionally, the volume of solvent used is relevant in preparing solutions but is not the focus of what a titration curve portrays.