Question

Is the soap solution acidic basic or neutral? How would you verify it?

Answer 1

Litmus paper:

• Litmus paper is a paper that has a particular mixture of dyes absorbed in it.
• Litmus paper is used as an indicator of the pH of the solution because it will change colour depending upon the nature of the solution.
• Litmus paper turns blue in colour when dipped in a basic solution and turns red when dipped in an acidic solution.
• The Hydroxide ions or protons react with the dye present in the litmus paper in the aqueous medium to give a different dye which shows the colour change.
• Hence, the presence of water is necessary as a solvent in order to let litmus paperwork, If there is no water or aqueous medium, then the litmus paper won't work.

Soap solution:

• Soaps are fatty acids of water-soluble sodium or potassium salts.
• The process is termed as saponification, in which a strong base is warmed with a fatty acid or fat ( or oils) to yield a salt and an alkanol which is usually known as glycerine ( or glycerol).
• Soaps are slightly basic because they are the salts of strong bases and weak acids.
• Soap with water shows pH above 7, basic behavior and it also it tastes sour which can be said that base is also having a sour taste.
• If soap is too basic, it can harm the skin, the surfaces it's supposed to clean, and the clothes it's supposed to clean.

Therefore, the soap solution is basic.