East West University

Methyl orange as an acid-base indicator

Submitted To

Dr. Thamina Acter

Assistant Professor
Department of Mathematical and Physical Sciences
East west university

Submitted By

Mahmudul Islam Bhuiyan

ID: 2022-3-60-219

Department of Computer Science Engineering

East west university

Course code: CHE109

Course Title: Engineering Chemistry

 Methyl orange as an acid-base indicator

Introduction:
Acid-base indicators are substances that change color in response to changes in pH. Methyl
orange is one such indicator which is widely used in chemistry and biology . In this
assignment, we will discuss in detail the properties of methyl orange as an acid-base
indicator(like its synthesis, limitations, and alternative PH indicators), its mechanism of
action, and its various applications.

Properties of Methyl Orange:

Methyl orange is an indicator that is soluble in water and has a molecular weight of 327.33
g/mol. Methyl orange has a pKa value of 3.4, which means it is a weak acid and it changes
color at a pH of approximately between 3.1 to 4. Its color changes from red to orange yellow
the pH increases from acidic to basic. This color change is rapid and easily visible, making it
a reliable indicator for acid-base titrations. The mechanism behind the color change of methyl
orange is due to the shift of electron density in the azo group, which results in a change of the
visible absorption spectrum of the compound.

The Sensitivity of Methyl Orange:

Methyl orange is a relatively sensitive indicator, with a color change that is easily visible to
the naked eye. However, its sensitivity can be improved by adjusting the concentration of the
indicator used in the solution being analyzed. Increasing the concentration of the indicator
will result in a more pronounced color change, making it easier to detect the endpoint of the
titration.
Precautions:

Methyl orange is generally considered safe to use, but precautions should still be taken when
handling the compound. It is important to avoid inhalation, ingestion, and contact with skin
and eyes. It should be handled in a well-ventilated area and protective equipment, such as
gloves and safety glasses, should be worn. Methyl orange can stain clothing and skin, so care
should be taken to avoid spills and splashes.

Mechanism of Action:

The mechanism behind the color change of methyl orange is due to the presence of protons
(H+) in acidic solutions, which interact with the indicator molecule, causing it to shift to the
yellow form. In basic solutions, hydroxide ions (OH-) interact with the indicator molecule,
causing it to shift to the red form. This mechanism is illustrated in the following equation:

MOH MO- + H+
Limitations of Methyl Orange:

While methyl orange is a widely used pH indicator, it does have some limitations. One
limitation is its narrow pH range, as it can only be used to detect pH changes between 3.1 and
4.4. Additionally, the color change of methyl orange can be affected by other factors, such as
the presence of metal ions or surfactants in the solution. In such cases, alternative indicators
may be more appropriate.

Other pH Indicators:

There are many other pH indicators available that can be used in place of methyl orange,
depending on the specific application. Some common indicators include litmus,
phenolphthalein, bromothymol blue, and thymol blue. Each of these indicators has a different
pH range at which they change color, making them more suitable for certain applications.

Litmus is a natural indicator that is extracted from lichens. It is blue in basic solutions and red
in acidic solutions. Phenolphthalein is a synthetic indicator that is commonly used in acid-
base titrations. It is colorless in acidic solutions and pink in basic solutions. Bromothymol
blue is a synthetic indicator that is used to determine the pH of a solution in the range of 6.0
to 7.6. It is yellow in acidic solutions and blue in basic solutions. Thymol blue is a synthetic
indicator that is used to determine the pH of a solution in the range of 1.2 to 2.8. It is red in
acidic solutions and yellow in basic solutions.
Synthesis of Methyl Orange:

Methyl orange can be synthesized by the reaction between dimethylaniline and sulfonated
benzenediazonium chloride. The reaction proceeds through an electrophilic substitution
mechanism, resulting in the formation of methyl orange. The synthesis of methyl orange is an
important industrial process, as it is used in the production of various dyes and pigments. The
synthesis can be carried out using different reaction conditions to obtain different variants of
methyl orange, such as sodium salt of methyl orange, which is more soluble in water and has
a slightly different pKa value.

Environmental Concerns:

While methyl orange is a commonly used indicator, it is important to note that it is classified
as a toxic substance and can pose a risk to human health and the environment if not handled
properly. It is important to follow proper safety procedures when working with any chemical
substance, and to dispose of waste materials in accordance with local regulations.

Applications of Methyl Orange:

Methyl orange is commonly used in laboratory experiments to determine the pH of a

solution. It is also used in industrial applications to monitor the pH of various chemical
processes. Additionally, methyl orange is used in medicine to help diagnose conditions such
as stomach acid problems. In laboratory experiments, methyl orange is often used to
determine the endpoint of an acid-base titration. This technique involves adding a solution of
known concentration to a solution of unknown concentration until the reaction is complete.
The point at which the indicator changes color indicates the endpoint of the reaction, and the
pH of the solution can be calculated using the known concentrations of the solutions.

In industry, methyl orange is used to monitor the pH of various chemical processes. It is

commonly used in the production of dyes and pigments, as well as in the manufacture of

pharmaceuticals and other chemicals. By monitoring the pH of these processes, it is possible

to optimize the reaction conditions and improve the yield of the desired product.

Methyl orange is also used in medicine to help diagnose conditions such as stomach acid
problems. In this application, the indicator is added to a sample of gastric fluid taken from the
patient. The color change of the indicator is then observed, which can help to determine the
acidity of the patient's stomach and diagnose conditions such as acid reflux or peptic ulcers.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, due to its reliable and rapid color change it a valuable compound. Methyl
orange is a pH indicator that changes color in response to changes in the acidity or basicity of
a solution. Its color change is due to the presence of protons or hydroxide ions, depending on
the pH of the solution. It is commonly used in laboratory experiments and industrial
applications to monitor pH levels. Methyl orange is an important tool in chemistry and its
versatility makes it a valuable compound in many fields.

References:

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by a flow injection system using methyl orange as an indicator Topic: Development of a flow
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dots for sensing of Hg2+ ions in water samples Topic: Use of methyl orange-capped Mn-
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