E750: Prep Notes

Introduction

The pH of several common household items is observed using universal indicator and pH standards for reference.

Supplies

Short List

•   50 mL beakers
•   Standard solutions in lighted test tube rack

Chemicals

•   Vinegar, soap, ammonia, lemon juice, clear soda pop, drain cleaner, baking soda solution, etc.
•   Universal indicator or red cabbage indicator

Prior to Lecture  (prep time ~ ? min.)

1.  Prepare desired household chemicals, ie: vinegar, soap, ammonia, lemon juice, clear soda pop, drain cleaner, baking soda solution, etc.
2.  If desired, prepare red cabbage indicator by boiling red cabbage in distilled water and filtering.Provide several prepared reference pH solutions in a lighted test tube rack.
3. Provide appropriate number of 50mL beakers.

To Conduct Demonstration

1. Pour desired household chemicals into separate 50 mL beakers. Add a few drops of universal indicator OR about 25 mL of red cabbage indicator and mix.
2. Compare colors to standard solutions in lighted test tube rack.

Safety and Disposal

Solutions may all be sink-disposed