Orthophosphate Determination

[misslondon]

1) After acid hydrolysis, why is there a need to neutralize the water sample with NaOH? What happens if the water sample wasn't neutralize prior to the addtion of the reagent?

2) Why can't you stand the sample for more than 30 minutes?

[tom jupille]

Because not everyone is familiar with the exact procedure to which you are referring, can you provide more details?