Phenolphthalein is colourless and methyl orange is red in a solution. What is the nature of this solution?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Acidic
Indicator colours reveal the approximate nature of a solution. Phenolphthalein is colourless in acidic and neutral media and turns pink in a sufficiently basic medium. Methyl orange is red in an acidic medium, yellow in a basic medium, and orange near its transition range. The simultaneous observations—colourless phenolphthalein and red methyl orange—therefore indicate an acidic solution. Option B is correct; a basic solution would make methyl orange yellow and usually phenolphthalein pink.
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What is the correct answer to this question?
Acidic
Why is this the correct answer?
Indicator colours reveal the approximate nature of a solution. Phenolphthalein is colourless in acidic and neutral media and turns pink in a sufficiently basic medium. Methyl orange is red in an acidic medium, yellow in a basic medium, and orange near its transition range. The simultaneous observations—colourless phenolphthalein and red methyl orange—therefore indicate an acidic solution. Option B is correct; a basic solution would make methyl orange yellow and usually phenolphthalein pink.
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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