Acids, Bases, and the Chemistry of Taste

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the use of a red cabbage water indicator to test the acidity of various substances, specifically Isopropyl alcohol and saline solution. Neither substance altered the indicator's color, leading to confusion regarding their acidity. Participants noted that all areas of the tongue can detect tastes, although some variations exist. Additionally, Isopropyl alcohol is highlighted as more toxic than ethanol, raising safety concerns about its consumption.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of acid-base indicators, specifically red cabbage water indicators.
  • Knowledge of the chemical properties of Isopropyl alcohol and its metabolic effects.
  • Basic anatomy of the tongue and its role in taste perception.
  • Familiarity with the concept of taste testing and its methodologies.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the chemical properties and safety concerns of Isopropyl alcohol.
  • Explore the use of natural indicators in acid-base chemistry experiments.
  • Study the anatomy of the tongue and its specific taste receptor zones.
  • Investigate the differences between various types of alcohol and their effects on the human body.
USEFUL FOR

Chemistry students, educators, and anyone interested in the scientific principles of taste and the safety of chemical substances.

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"Acids, Bases, and the Chemistry of Taste"

I'm using a red cabbage water indicator to test some substances and, so far, I've done Isopropyl alcohol and Saline solution. Neither substance caused any change in the color of the indicator though which I can't figure out... I'm to do a taste test as well but I'm not to taste the alcohol. Wouldn't that imply that it's dangerous? That, to me, says acid but nothing... Is there anything wrong?

As for the taste test, I did as I was told and tested all four areas of my tongue but I can taste the saline solution on each one. Is that normal/right?
 
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Alcohol? It would appear that you are underage, perhaps this is the reason you cannot taste the alcohol? Also, I have never hear of an acidic alcohol :wink:

~H
 
Plus this particular alcohol is more toxic than the ethanol that's found in alcoholic beverages.

In the liver, Isopropyl alcohol is broken down into acetone, which isn't the best thing to have in your system.

As for the second question, I'm not an expert on the tongue but as far as I understand all parts of your tongue have the capability of detecting all tastes; it's just that there are some slight variations in the different sections of the tongue.
 

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