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By the pH, or more specific, the amount of positive hydrogen atoms. The higher the number pH, the lower the acidity (i.e. 14 pH is the most basic base, 1 being the highest).

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Indicators are substances that change color depending on the pH of a solution. They do this by undergoing a reversible chemical reaction that is sensitive to the concentration of hydrogen ions (H+) in the solution. In acidic solutions, indicators change color to reflect the acidic pH, whereas in basic solutions, indicators change color to reflect the basic pH.

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Q: How do indicators distinguish acids and bases?
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What four properties that acids and bases have in common?

Both acids and bases are electrolytes, meaning they can conduct electricity in solution. They can react with each other to form water and a salt. Acids and bases can change the color of certain indicators to show their pH levels. Acids and bases can neutralize each other when mixed in the right proportions.


Which of these properties is common to both acids and bases?

Both acids and bases can be categorized as electrolytes, meaning they can conduct electricity when dissolved in water. Additionally, they both can react with certain metals to produce hydrogen gas. Lastly, both acids and bases can change the color of specific indicators to indicate their presence.


What are common indicators are used to determine whether cargoes transported are acids or bases?

Common indicators used to determine whether cargoes are acids or bases include litmus paper (turns red in acids and blue in bases), pH paper (changes color based on the pH level), and universal indicator solution (changes colors to indicate the acidity or basicity of a substance). These indicators help in quickly identifying the nature of the cargo being transported.


What are some names of natural indicators and how do they detect acids and bases?

Some natural indicators include red cabbage, turmeric, and blueberries. These indicators change color in the presence of acids and bases due to their chemical properties. For example, red cabbage contains a pigment that changes from red in acids to green/blue in bases.


Is an indicator's reaction in acids and bases a chemical change?

No, an indicator's reaction in acids and bases is a physical change. Indicators change color based on the pH of the solution they are in, but the chemical composition of the indicator remains the same.