Question:

Phenolphthalein changes colour at pH

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Phenolphthalein is one of the most widely used acid–base indicators in titrations. To answer this, you simply need to recall the pH range over which it changes colour, which is a standard value worth memorising.
Updated On: Jun 24, 2026
  • 1.2–2.0
  • 3.1–4.4
  • 6.0–7.6
  • 8.3–10.0
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Concept:
Phenolphthalein is one of the most widely used acid–base indicators in titrations. To answer this, you simply need to recall the pH range over which it changes colour, which is a standard value worth memorising.

Step 1: An indicator changes colour over a particular range of pH. For phenolphthalein, this transition range is about pH 8.3 to 10.0. Below this range it is colourless (in acidic solution) and above it turns pink/magenta (in basic solution).

Step 2: Because it changes colour on the slightly basic side, phenolphthalein is ideal for titrating a weak acid with a strong base, where the endpoint falls in the basic region.

Step 3: The other ranges given belong to different indicators — for example, methyl orange changes around pH 3.1–4.4 and works in the acidic region. So the correct range for phenolphthalein is 8.3–10.0.

Answer: Option (4) — 8.3–10.0.
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