Phenolphthalein

Phenolphthalein is a weak acid which is often used as an acid-base indicator. Its chemical formula is C₂₀H₁₄O₄ (HIn). Phenolphthalein has four color stages in the aqueous solution.

Figure: The color of phenolphthalein in solution with various pH levels.

When the pH is below 0, the solution is strongly acidic, and the color of the solution is orange. When the pH is between 0 and 0.82, the solution is acidic or near neutral, and the solution is colorless. When the pH is above 13, the solution is basic, and the color of the solution is pink to dark pink.