The conditional constant as error variable in the evaluation of stability constants from combined pH and pM measurements

Combined pH and pM measurements are useful in studies of chelate complexes. A plot of a conditional constant as a function of pH will indicate the species present in the solution and will give good estimates of the unknown stability constants. The values of the constants can be refined by non-linear regression analysis with the conditional constant as error variable. The approach enables programmable pocket calculators to be used in the optimization process.