USE OF COMPUTER SPREADSHEETS AS AN AID IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF ACID-BASE EQUILIBRIUM DIAGRAMS

Textbooks typically address the concept of acid base equilibrium diagram development by showing the reader the shape of the complete diagram rather than the algebraic solution for each component concentration over the pH range.  Of course, the content of printed matter is also limited to the illustrated examples, which in most textbooks are normally few.  These limitations are easily overcome by the use of personal computers.  We have found that spreadsheets are quite suitable to the development of equilibrium diagrams.  We have tested this concept in the multimedia classroom with success.  We have also required students to develop their own spreadsheet-based diagrams in various assignments.  This approach strengthens the understanding of diagram development and simplifies the application to the solution of environmental engineering problems.