Titrimetric Analysis of Amino Acids

The quantitative titrimetric analysis of amino acids often is complicated by the high pK_a of the —NH₄⁺ group, which produces a titration break that is too small for the effective use of a visual indicator. There are several ways to overcome this complication, including a back-titration, changing to a non-aqueous solvent, or using a derivative titration curve.  For each of these methods, discuss how it might improve the experimental determination of the titration’s endpoint. Be sure to explain how the method enhances your ability to locate the endpoint, and how the volume of titrant needed to reach the end point is related to the concentration of amino acid.