Phenol Red

Phenol Red is a pH indicator commonly used in cell biology laboratories. It is a weak acid that changes color from yellow to red over the pH range 6.8 to 8.2. Above pH 8.2, phenol red will turn a bright pink color.

Chemical Properties

Phenol Red is a chemical compound with the formula C19H14O5S. It is a white crystalline solid that is poorly soluble in water but soluble in alcohol and diethyl ether. The compound is a derivative of phenol, containing two sulfonic acid functional groups.

Uses

Phenol Red is widely used in biology and chemistry laboratories as a pH indicator. It is typically used in a solution to test the pH of a substance. The color change of the solution—from yellow to red—provides a visual indication of the pH level.

In addition to its use as a pH indicator, Phenol Red is also used in cell culture media. It serves as a pH indicator in the culture media, changing color to indicate changes in the pH of the culture medium. This can be useful in monitoring the health and growth of cells in culture.

Safety

Phenol Red is not considered to be particularly hazardous, but like all chemicals, it should be handled with care. It can cause irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. It is recommended to use personal protective equipment when handling Phenol Red.

See Also

• Bromothymol blue
• Methyl red
• Litmus