Final answer:
To determine the pH of a solution, you can choose between a pH probe or a pH indicator. A pH probe is an electronic device that measures the potential difference across a thin glass electrode immersed in the solution, while a pH indicator is a compound that undergoes a color change at a specific pH value. The choice depends on the specific requirements of the experiment or application.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Choice of a pH Probe or pH Indicator
To determine the pH of a solution, you can choose between a pH probe or a pH indicator. A pH probe is an electronic device that measures the potential difference across a thin glass electrode immersed in the solution. It provides precise and accurate pH values. On the other hand, a pH indicator is a compound that undergoes a color change at a specific pH value. It is commonly used for estimating the pH of a solution without expensive equipment. Different indicators are selected based on the pH range of the solution being tested and the desired accuracy.
For example, litmus paper is a type of pH indicator that changes from pink to blue in the presence of an acid or base. Other indicators, such as phenolphthalein and bromcresol green, have different color transitions at specific pH ranges. The choice between a pH probe and a pH indicator depends on the specific requirements of the experiment or application.