Universal Indicator
A universal indicator is a mixture of indicators that shows different colours for different pH values.
Practice This ConceptMain explanation
Teacher explanation
Universal indicator is useful when a student needs more information than simple litmus paper gives. It can show whether a solution is strongly acidic, weakly acidic, neutral, weakly basic, or strongly basic. The colour obtained can then be matched with a pH chart. This makes it a powerful tool for comparing solutions in the laboratory.
Example
A neutral solution may show green, while a basic solution may show blue or purple depending on its pH.
Simple analogy
Universal indicator gives the colour map of pH.
Common confusion
Students often confuse universal indicator with litmus. Litmus only tells acid or base, while universal indicator gives a pH range by colour.
Exam tip
If the question asks for exact comparison of strength, universal indicator is usually the better choice than litmus.
Answer writing and exam use
1-mark use
Write the exact meaning of universal indicator in one clean line.
2-mark use
Define universal indicator and add one example or condition.
3-mark use
Explain universal indicator, show the method or example, and mention the common mistake.
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