A test tube containing an acid and a test tube containing a base look the same. Scientists use indicators, substances that change color, to distinguish between acids and bases. You have probably heard that acids corrode metals. ...

Acids: hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid, acetic acid; Bases: sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, ammonium hydroxide; forceps; graduated cylinder; hydrion paper; litmus paper; medicine dropper; methanol; phenolphthalein; test tube racks (2); test tubes (9); zinc

Set up two test tube racks with nine test tubes. Using a graduated cylinder, transfer about 5 mL of each of the following into separate test tubes: hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid, acetic acid, sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, ammonium hydroxide, methanol, and the unknown.

Using forceps dip a piece of red litmus into the test tube of hydrochloric acid. Then dip a piece of blue litmus into the test tube. Record your observations in the data table on the next page. If neither color changes write NO CHANGE. If both pieces of litmus are blue after the test write BLUE. If both pieces of litmus are red after the test, write RED. Repeat this procedure using fresh paper for the remaining test tubes.
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