Question

A few drops of turmeric solution are added to a colorless liquid. If the liquid turns red in color, the liquid could be:

• A. Hydrochloric acid
• B. Distilled water
• C. Ammonium hydroxide
• D. Lemon juice

Hint:

Turmeric changes to red in basic medium and remains yellow in acidic or neutral medium.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The problem involves understanding the behavior of turmeric as an acid-base indicator. Turmeric changes color based on the pH of the solution it interacts with. In acidic or neutral solutions, turmeric remains yellow, but it changes to red in basic solutions.

Let's examine the options:

• Hydrochloric acid: This is an acid, and turmeric remains yellow in acidic environments.
• Distilled water: This is neutral, so turmeric will not change color.
• Ammonium hydroxide: This is a base, which will turn turmeric red.
• Lemon juice: It is acidic, so turmeric stays yellow.

Since the turmeric solution turns red, the liquid must be basic. Thus, the colorless liquid that could cause this reaction is ammonium hydroxide.