Year 10 Science · Unit 2 · Lesson 3

Acids, Bases and Indicators in Action

Foundation Worksheet

Name
Date
Class

Learning Goals

Match each term to its definition

Draw a line connecting each indicator on the left to its correct colour change on the right. Or write the matching letter next to each indicator.

IndicatorYour answerColour change
LitmusA. Colourless in acid → pink/magenta in base
Universal indicatorB. Yellow in acid/base → red/pink in strong base
PhenolphthaleinC. Red in acid, blue in base
Red cabbage juiceD. Gives a full colour range from red (pH 1) through orange, yellow, green, blue to purple (pH 14)
TurmericE. Pink/red at low pH → purple at neutral → blue/green at high pH

Order the steps

Number the steps from 1 to 6 to show the correct order for safely testing the pH of household substances in a laboratory. Step 1 = what you do first.

OrderStep
Record the colour of the indicator and match it to the pH scale reference chart.
Put on safety goggles and gloves before handling any substances.
Add a few drops of the household substance to a test tube or well plate.
Wash hands thoroughly and clean equipment when the experiment is complete.
Collect all substances, indicator solution, test tubes, and safety equipment.
Add 2–3 drops of indicator (e.g. universal indicator) to the substance in the test tube.

1. A student tests cola with red cabbage juice indicator and gets a red-pink colour. A second substance (bleach) turns the indicator yellow-green. State the approximate pH of each substance and classify each as acidic, neutral, or basic.

Recall 2 marks

2. Explain why it is important to dilute concentrated household substances (such as bleach) before testing them with indicators in a school laboratory. Give two reasons.

Recall 2 marks

Wrap Up

In one sentence, what was the main idea of this lesson?