A student says identifying acids by taste is the simplest method. Why is this idea wrong in the laboratory?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Because many acids are harmful and indicators are safer
The governing principle is laboratory safety: no chemical should be tasted because even a small quantity of an acid may burn tissues or be poisonous. Acids also differ in concentration, so taste cannot reliably identify their strength or exact pH. Instead, litmus, universal indicator, or pH paper can test acidity without direct contact. Therefore option A is correct; B is false because acids may have tastes, C confuses taste with measurement, and D wrongly limits indicators to metals.
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What is the correct answer to this question?
Because many acids are harmful and indicators are safer
Why is this the correct answer?
The governing principle is laboratory safety: no chemical should be tasted because even a small quantity of an acid may burn tissues or be poisonous. Acids also differ in concentration, so taste cannot reliably identify their strength or exact pH. Instead, litmus, universal indicator, or pH paper can test acidity without direct contact. Therefore option A is correct; B is false because acids may have tastes, C confuses taste with measurement, and D wrongly limits indicators to metals.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 10 Science question. Chapter: Chemical Substances – Nature and Behaviour. Topic: Acids, Bases, and Salts.
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