The indicator methyl orange has been added to both of the following solutions. Based on the colors, classify each statement as true or false: (a) The pH of solution A is definitely less than 7.00. (b) The pH of solution B is definitely greater than 7.00. (c) The pH of solution B is greater than that of solution A.

Verified step by step guidance

1. insert step 1> Understand that methyl orange is a pH indicator that changes color depending on the acidity or basicity of a solution.
2. insert step 2> Recall that methyl orange changes from red at a pH of 3.1 to yellow at a pH of 4.4.
3. insert step 3> Consider the color of solution A after adding methyl orange. If the solution is red, it indicates a pH less than 3.1. If it is yellow, the pH is above 4.4.
4. insert step 4> If solution A is orange, it suggests a pH between 3.1 and 4.4.
5. insert step 5> Conclude that if solution A is red or orange, the pH is definitely less than 7.00. If it is yellow, further information is needed to determine if the pH is less than 7.00.

Key Concepts

pH Scale

The pH scale measures the acidity or basicity of a solution, ranging from 0 to 14. A pH less than 7 indicates an acidic solution, while a pH greater than 7 indicates a basic solution. A pH of exactly 7 is considered neutral. Understanding the pH scale is essential for interpreting the results of acid-base indicators like methyl orange.

Acid-Base Indicators

Acid-base indicators are substances that change color in response to changes in pH. Methyl orange, for example, turns red in acidic solutions (pH < 3.1) and yellow in neutral to basic solutions (pH > 4.4). Knowing how these indicators behave at different pH levels helps in determining the acidity or basicity of a solution based on its color.

Color Change Interpretation

Interpreting the color change of an indicator in a solution is crucial for determining its pH. If methyl orange is red, it suggests the solution is acidic (pH < 3.1), while a yellow color indicates a neutral or basic solution (pH > 4.4). This understanding allows for accurate classification of the solution's pH based on the observed color.