Prepare a solution of 125 g of anhydrous sodium sulfite (A.1.1) in 500 cm3 of water and dilute to 1dm3. Transfer 100 cm3 of the solution to a 500 cm3 conical flask. Accurately weigh into the flask 6.0 g to 8.0 g of the nominally 50 g/dm3 formaldehyde solution (4.3)1) and swirl to mix thoroughly. Allow to stand for 5 min then titrate with 0.25 mol/dm3 sulfuric acid (A.1.2) to the first colourless end-point using thymolphthalein (A.1.3) as indicator. Run a blank determination with the sodium sulfite solution.