Final answer:
Reference values are crucial for choosing the right indicator during a titration because they provide a benchmark for the expected pH at the equivalence point. Indicators with a color change interval that matches the equivalence point ensure a distinct endpoint. pH papers with multiple indicators present an affordable way to estimate the pH of a solution.
Step-by-step explanation:
Reference values, particularly when using an indicator in a chemical titration, are essential because they provide a benchmark for the expected pH change at the equivalence point. We determine which indicator to use based on the calculated pH that corresponds to the equivalence point, where equal amounts of acid and base have been mixed, resulting in a salt's solution.
Taking the potential of a reference electrode which remains constant regardless of the sample's composition is important for accurate measurements. When conducting a titration, it is critical to select an indicator with a color change interval that closely matches the predicted pH at the titration's equivalence point. This ensures a clear and sharp transition, making the end point easy to recognize.
Additionally, using pH paper impregnated with a combination of indicators can serve as a cost-effective method to estimate the pH of a solution without the need for expensive pH meters. The color change of the pH paper compared to a standard reference can provide a rough estimate of a solution's pH level.