What type of solution should be used to rinse a buret before titration?

Using distilled water to rinse a buret before titration is essential because it ensures that the buret is free from any contaminants that could affect the accuracy of the titration results. Distilled water is purified and does not contain ions or chemicals that may interfere with the chemicals involved in the titration process.

When a buret is rinsed with distilled water, it helps to moisten the interior surfaces and remove any residual substances from previous use. This is important because even small traces of a different solution can alter the concentration of the titrant or the analyte, leading to inaccurate measurements.

In contrast, rinsing the buret with tap water could introduce impurities and ions, which could react with the solutions being used. Rinsing with acidic or alkaline solutions may also lead to contamination, as these solutions could leave behind residues or react chemically with the titrant or analyte. Therefore, using distilled water is the best practice for maintaining the integrity of the titration process.