To determine the amount of acetic acid absorbed per gram of activated charcoal, we first need to calculate the initial and final moles of acetic acid in the solution.
Step 1: Calculate Initial Moles of Acetic Acid
The normality (N) of the acetic acid solution is given as 0.06 N, and the volume is 50 ml. We can find the initial moles using the formula:
- Moles = Normality × Volume (in liters)
Convert 50 ml to liters:
50 ml = 0.050 L
Now, calculate the moles:
Moles of acetic acid = 0.06 N × 0.050 L = 0.003 moles
Step 2: Calculate Final Moles of Acetic Acid
The strength of the filtrate is found to be 0.042 N. Using the same volume of 50 ml:
Moles of acetic acid in the filtrate = 0.042 N × 0.050 L = 0.0021 moles
Step 3: Determine Moles Absorbed
Now, we can find the moles of acetic acid absorbed by subtracting the final moles from the initial moles:
Moles absorbed = Initial moles - Final moles = 0.003 - 0.0021 = 0.0009 moles
Step 4: Convert Moles to Milligrams
The molecular weight of acetic acid (CH₃COOH) is approximately 60 g/mol. To find the mass absorbed:
- Mass = Moles × Molecular Weight
Mass absorbed = 0.0009 moles × 60 g/mol = 0.054 g
Convert grams to milligrams:
0.054 g = 54 mg
Final Answer
The amount of acetic acid absorbed per gram of charcoal is 54 mg. Therefore, the correct option is A. 54 mg.