Phenolphthalein is an effective pH indicator because equivalence points in titrations are
marked by the analyte changing in color from in acidic and neutral solutions, to
in basic solutions.
light yellow; purple
bright pink; colorless
colorless; bright pink
white; bright purple

Phenolphthalein is widely used in acid-base titrations due to its dramatic color change. In acidic solutions, it appears colorless, and as the pH rises and the solution becomes basic, it transforms into a vibrant bright pink at around pH 8.2 to 10.0, marking the equivalence point effectively and allowing chemists to determine concentrations.

In real-world applications, phenolphthalein isn’t just a lab staple; it’s also used in determining the hardness of water and the concentration of hydroxide ions in various solutions. Whether you’re a budding scientist or a seasoned chemist, understanding how to use this indicator can help simplify complex titrations and ensure accurate results for testing water quality or manufacturing processes!