an indicator paper that turns red in an acid and blue in a base
The indicator paper we are referring to is commonly known as litmus paper
The indicator paper we are referring to is commonly known as litmus paper. Litmus paper is a type of pH indicator used to determine whether a substance is acidic or basic. It is a simple and convenient tool used in various scientific and laboratory experiments.
Litmus paper is typically made from a mixture of lichens, which are a type of fungus. The lichens contain a pigment called litmus that changes color depending on the pH of the substance it comes into contact with. The pigment is extracted and impregnated onto paper strips, creating the litmus paper.
When litmus paper is exposed to an acidic substance, it turns red or pink. This is due to the fact that the litmus pigment undergoes a chemical change when it interacts with hydrogen ions (H+) present in acidic solutions. On the other hand, when litmus paper comes into contact with a basic substance, it turns blue. This is because the litmus pigment reacts with hydroxide ions (OH-) found in basic solutions.
It is important to note that litmus paper can only provide a rough estimate of pH. It indicates whether a substance is acidic or basic but does not provide numerical measurements. For more precise pH measurements, a digital pH meter or pH indicators such as universal indicator solution may be used.
Litmus paper is widely used in various applications, such as in science experiments, in the testing of water quality, and in the food and beverage industry to check the acidity or alkalinity of certain products. It is a handy tool that allows scientists, researchers, and even students to quickly determine the pH of a solution without the need for complicated equipment.
More Answers:
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Understanding pH Value: The Key to Assessing Acidity and Alkalinity in Substances