Final answer:
The color-changing element in a moisture indicator changes color based on the relative humidity of the environment.
Step-by-step explanation:
In a moisture indicator, the color-changing element is designed to change color based on the relative humidity of the surrounding environment. As the humidity increases or decreases, the color of the indicator will change accordingly.
For example, anhydrous cobalt chloride (CoCl2) is blue in color. When it absorbs water from the air, it forms a hydrated complex with a different color. The change in color indicates the presence of moisture in the environment.
This color-changing property of indicators is based on the chemical properties of the indicator molecules and their interaction with the surrounding environment.