Study Guides/Chemistry/Phenolphthalein Colour in Acid and Base
Study Guide · Chemistry

Phenolphthalein Colour in Acid and Base

Phenolphthalein is one of the most common and important acid-base indicators used in chemistry laboratories, especially for titrations.

Question (Click to Flip)

What is the pH range of phenolphthalein?

Answer

The visual transition interval (pH range) of phenolphthalein is 8.2 to 10.0 (Colourless to Pink).

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Key Facts

Phenolphthalein's chemical formula is C₂₀H₁₄O₄. It was discovered in 1871 by the famous German chemist Adolf von Baeyer.

Colour Changes of Phenolphthalein

Phenolphthalein changes colour depending on the pH of the solution:

  • In Acidic Solution (pH < 7): Colourless
  • In Neutral Solution (pH = 7): Colourless
  • In Basic/Alkaline Solution (pH > 8.2): Pink / Magenta

(Note: In extremely strong bases, pH > 12, it can become colourless again).

Why Does it Change Colour?

Phenolphthalein is a weak organic acid.

  • In acidic form (HIn), the molecule is structurally configured in a way that absorbs UV light, making it appear colourless to our eyes.
  • In basic conditions, it loses a proton (H⁺) to become an ion (In⁻). This structural change shifts its light absorption into the visible spectrum, making it appear pink.

Use in Titrations

It is widely used in titrations involving strong bases (like NaOH) and weak or strong acids (like HCl or CH₃COOH). The endpoint is indicated by the first appearance of a permanent pale pink colour.

Questions and Answers

What is the pH range of phenolphthalein?+

The visual transition interval (pH range) of phenolphthalein is **8.2 to 10.0** (Colourless to Pink).

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