The color change of litmus paper is used to determine whether a solution is acidic or basic.
Step 1: Behavior of litmus paper.
- Red litmus paper turns blue when the solution is basic (alkaline).
- Blue litmus paper turns red when the solution is acidic.
Step 2: pH and its relation to acidity and basicity.
- A pH less than 7 indicates an acidic solution.
- A pH of 7 indicates a neutral solution (like pure water).
- A pH greater than 7 indicates a basic (alkaline) solution.
Since the solution turns red litmus paper blue, it indicates the solution is basic. The pH of a basic solution typically ranges from 8 to 14.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Thus, the pH value of the solution is most likely 8, which is a mild alkaline solution. The correct answer is (D).