A pH meter uses a probe and voltmeter to measure pH digitally. Universal indicator is a mix of indicators that change colour to indicate the pH of the solution. pH meters are accurate and will detect changes quickly, whereas universal indicator is slow to change colour to indicate pH change.
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An indicator is a substance that changes color in response to changes in pH, indicating the acidity or alkalinity of a solution. A universal indicator is a mixture of indicators that can show a range of pH levels by changing color, making it more versatile than a single indicator.
A universal indicator shows both sides of the pH scale whereas other indicators such as phenolphthalein shows alkalis as pink but neutral and acids as clear
An acid will cause universal indicator to change to a red color, indicating a pH level between 0-3. This color change occurs because the acidic conditions cause the indicator molecules to shift their absorption spectrum towards the red end of the spectrum.
The universal indicator turns red in acidic solutions.
Green is the color that universal indicator turns to when it is neutral.
Alkalis turn universal indicator blue or purple.
Ammonia typically appears blue on a universal indicator.