Methyl red is an azo dye, or a synthetic dye, which is one of the common chemical indicators used in the laboratory to determine pH transitions within a specific range. It’s most effective between pH 4.4 and pH 6.2. If the pH level is below 4.4, its colour is red, and if it’s above 6.2, the colour turns yellow. If...
Silica gel is a commercial desiccant - it removes moisture from the air and reduces humidity. When you’ve bought a new pair of shoes, you’ve probably noticed the small packets of beads that come inside the packaging. These are packets of silica gel granules. They are often included in product packaging, like electronic gadgets, telescopes, and microscopes, so as to...
Toluene is mainly used as a chemical solvent, especially in paint thinners. As a solvent, it has many important industrial applications, such as being a feedstock of various products like rubber and printing ink. Toluene is a colourless liquid that is highly flammable and has dissociative anaesthetic effects. Because of this property, some people use it as a recreational inhalant....
Ethyl alcohol, also known as ethanol, is the active ingredient in alcoholic beverages. While you drink it when you consume things like beer, spirits and wine, drinking ethyl alcohol on its own is dangerous and could cause fatality. Continue reading to learn the chemistry behind ethyl alcohol, from its chemical composition and manufacturing process to how it differs from isopropyl...
