CAPS-Aligned Interactive Acid-Base Indicator Lab

Investigate acids and bases using everyday substances, indicators and the pH scale. Make a prediction, test the sample, record your observation, classify the substance, and complete the quiz.

CAPS Link Natural Sciences: Matter and Materials
Core Concept Acids, bases, indicators and pH
Science Process Skills Predict, observe, classify, record and explain
Assessment Focus Practical investigation and concept questions

1. Plan and Predict

Observation: Select a substance, predict, and test the sample.
Investigation progress: 0 records completed
Virtual lab bench
Untested sample

2. pH Scale

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3. Record Your Results

Substance Indicator Predicted class Observed colour pH Final class Correct?

Indicator Guide

IndicatorAcidNeutralBase
LitmusRedPurpleBlue
Universal indicatorRed / orange / yellowGreenBlue / purple
PhenolphthaleinColourlessColourlessPink
Red cabbage indicatorRed / pinkPurpleGreen / yellow-green

4. Learner Quiz

Answer the questions after completing at least three tests. Click Check Score to receive feedback.

Your score will appear here.

Teacher Notes: CAPS Alignment

Learning intentions

  • Identify acids and bases using indicators.
  • Use the pH scale to classify substances.
  • Record observations from a simple investigation.
  • Explain the relationship between colour change and pH.

Suggested classroom use

  1. Learners predict whether a substance is acidic, neutral or basic.
  2. Learners test using different indicators.
  3. Learners record observations in the table.
  4. Learners complete the quiz as consolidation.