Verified Solution Science Acids, Bases and Salts

You have been provided with three test tubes. One of them contains distilled water and the other two contain an acidic solution and a basic solution, respectively. If you are given only red litmus paper, how will you identify the contents of each test tube ?

389 views 52 helpful Updated May 31, 2025
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Answer

You have three test tubes: one with distilled water, one with an acid, and one with a base. You have only red litmus paper to identify them.

  1. Dip red litmus paper into each test tube.
  2. If the red litmus paper turns blue, the solution is basic.
  3. If the red litmus paper stays red, the solution is either acidic or neutral (distilled water).
  4. To distinguish between acid and distilled water (both keep red litmus red), use other properties like smell or taste carefully (if safe), or by elimination after identifying the base.
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