Turmeric becomes reddish-brown and red litmus turns blue. Which ion will be in excess in the solution?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Hydroxide ion
The governing concept is the identification of bases by indicators. Turmeric changes to reddish-brown in a basic medium, and a base changes red litmus to blue. In an aqueous basic solution, hydroxide ions are present in excess relative to hydrogen ions. Thus option A is correct. Hydrogen ions would be associated with acidity, while chloride and nitrate ions are spectator ions and do not determine basicity by themselves.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Hydroxide ion
Why is this the correct answer?
The governing concept is the identification of bases by indicators. Turmeric changes to reddish-brown in a basic medium, and a base changes red litmus to blue. In an aqueous basic solution, hydroxide ions are present in excess relative to hydrogen ions. Thus option A is correct. Hydrogen ions would be associated with acidity, while chloride and nitrate ions are spectator ions and do not determine basicity by themselves.
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.
