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When red litmus paper is added to limewater, then what will be the change in litmus paper? Give reason. Write the chemical formula of limewater also.

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Answer:

The litmus paper will turn blue; Ca(OH)₂

Step-by-step explanation:

Limewater is a dilute aqueous solution of calcium hydroxide.

Ca(OH)₂(aq) ⟶ Ca²⁺(aq) + 2OH⁻ (aq)

Limewater contains hydroxide ions. They cause the limewater to be basic.

Litmus is a mixture of dyes extracted from lichens. They are weak acids with complicated formulas.

Let's just write the formula for litmus as HLit.

The hydroxide ions from limewater react with the H of litmus to form a salt — the base form — and water.

HLit + OH⁻ ⟶ Lit⁻ + H₂O

acid form base form

red blue

The base form of litmus is blue, so

Red litmus turns blue in the presence of limewater.

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