JEE Main levelOne or more correct optionsDifficulty 2 of 3ia047
A weak-acid indicator HIn has KIn=1.0×10−5. Assume the acid colour is seen when [HIn]/[InX−]≥10 and the base colour when [InX−]/[HIn]≥10. Select the correct statements.
AAt pH 5.0 the two forms are present in equal amounts
BThe pure acid colour is seen at pH 4.0 or lower
CThe colour change range is about pH 4 to pH 6
DAt pH 3.0 the ratio [InX−]/[HIn] is 0.1
Answer: A, B, C
pH=pKIn+log([InX−]/[HIn]) with pKIn=5.0. At pH 5 the ratio is 1. Ratio 0.1 gives pH 4 and ratio 10 gives pH 6, so the range is 4 to 6. At pH 3 the ratio is 10−2=0.01, not 0.1. Answer A, B, C.