Classifying Substances as Acid or Base: Help Needed!

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on classifying unknown substances as acids or bases using indicators such as bromthymol blue, blue/red litmus paper, and phenolphthalein. A specific case was presented where a substance tested as an acid with two indicators but as a base with the other two, suggesting it may be amphoteric. The consensus emphasizes the importance of using multiple indicators for accurate classification and recommends further testing or consulting a teacher for clarification.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of acid-base indicators: bromthymol blue, blue/red litmus paper, phenolphthalein
  • Knowledge of amphoteric substances and their properties
  • Basic laboratory skills for conducting chemical tests
  • Familiarity with pH measurement techniques
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the properties and examples of amphoteric substances
  • Learn about the pH scale and its significance in acid-base chemistry
  • Explore advanced acid-base titration techniques
  • Investigate the limitations of different acid-base indicators
USEFUL FOR

Students in chemistry courses, science educators, and laboratory technicians involved in acid-base classification and testing.

alicezz
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acid or base? please help

hi during a science lab we tesed various unknown substances to classify them as either acid or base.

Some of the indicators that were used was:
bromthymol blue,
blue/red litmus paper,
phenophthalein .

One of the substances was acid according to 2 indicators but it was base according to the other two. Is this substance acid or base?
 
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What was your recorded data for this substance?
 


Hi, it sounds like you are having some trouble classifying the unknown substance as acid or base. This can happen sometimes, as different indicators can give different results. In order to accurately determine if the substance is an acid or base, it is important to use multiple indicators and compare the results. Based on the information you provided, it seems like the substance could potentially be amphoteric, which means it can act as both an acid and a base depending on the conditions. I would recommend doing some additional tests or consulting with your teacher for further guidance. Good luck!
 

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