It's important to know if you're handling acid or a base.When mixed with other substances, acids and bases act differently.The strength of acids and bases is measured on the pH scale.A way to identify acids and bases is by measuring the pH.If you don't know the acidity or basicity of a substance, assume it is dangerous until you know otherwise.
Step 1: Take a sample of the liquid and mix it with acid.
On contact, acids and bases are known for neutralizing each other.The neutralization reaction causes the two reactants to explode.This reaction can be done with a well known acid.A sample of liquid can be put in a bowl or dish.You can add your acid with a dropper.Your liquid is most likely a base if you see bubbles in the bowl.It is a good idea to choose a diluting acid.Do not use acids that are strong.
Step 2: A sample of the liquid should be mixed with a base.
Add the base to a bowl and then add liquid with a dropper.If you see a neutralization reaction in your liquid, it's most likely an acid.There is no need to have a strong base.Baking soda works well.
Step 3: Do you know if the liquid is safe to drink?
If you know what liquid you are testing, then you can decide if it is safe to drink.Water, milk, orange juice are liquids intended for human consumption.
Step 4: If it is safe to do so, you can taste the liquid.
You can taste a sample to see if your liquid is safe to drink.Lemons are high in citric acid.Mustard is basic and can be identified by a bitter taste.
Step 5: You can choose an indicator.
An indicator is a chemical that will change colors when exposed to an acid or base.In the presence of acid and a base, litmus will change from blue to red.Red cabbage juice contains chemicals that turn red, blue, and yellow when exposed to acids and bases.You can either use a liquid form of the indicator or use strips of paper coated with it.
Step 6: The indicator should be exposed to a sample of liquid.
Simply dip the strip into the liquid if you choose to use it.Allow the strip to dry.Put the liquid indicator in a clear container so that you don't distort the color.Drop the sample liquid into the indicator with a dropper.
Step 7: Look at the color change.
The color change on the liquid indicator and the pH strips should be the same.litmus can only tell you if your solution is acid or base.Red cabbage juice can be compared to a universal indicator that will give you an approximate pH range for your liquid.
Step 8: You can choose a meter.
There are many different ways to measure pH.The hydrogen electrode method is inconvenient for most applications.The glass method is the most used method.Each time you use it, you get the same results.If you are using small sample sizes, you might consider a semi-conductor type pH meter.There are places that sell laboratory equipment, as well as big-box stores and online, where you can find pH meters.
Step 9: Take care of your liquid.
You want your sample to be as close to uniform as possible.Before measuring with the pH meter, shake or stir the sample.You should make sure that the sample is at a stable temperature and that there are no solid particles in it.This will give you the most accurate reading.
Step 10: Prepare the meter.
You should follow the manual for the meter you choose.The sample will usually be put in a solution of a known pH and a second electrode in it.You should be sure that the electrodes are clean.
Step 11: Measure the liquid's pH.
The liquids should be submerged into the proper ones.The difference in voltage is related to the solution's pH.The meter can calculate the solution's pH.