How Do You Spell PHENOLPHTHALEIN?

1. Phenolphthalein is a chemical compound commonly used as an acid-base indicator in laboratory experiments and titrations. Its chemical formula is C20H14O4, and it belongs to the class of organic compounds known as phthalides. Phenolphthalein is a white, crystalline solid with a faint, distinct odor.

   As an indicator, phenolphthalein is colorless in acidic solutions, but turns pink or fuchsia in alkaline or basic solutions. This property allows it to be a visual cue for the presence and concentration of acids and bases. In a neutral solution, phenolphthalein remains colorless.

   Beyond its use as an indicator, phenolphthalein has also been employed in some medical applications. It was used as a laxative due to its ability to stimulate bowel movements, though it has since been withdrawn from many markets due to potential carcinogenic effects.

   The compound is sparingly soluble in water, but dissolves well in alcohol, ether, benzene, and other organic solvents. It can undergo a variety of reactions, including esterification and oxidation.

   Overall, phenolphthalein is a versatile compound primarily used as an acid-base indicator due to its pH-dependent color change. Its distinct qualities make it a valuable tool for chemists and scientists in a range of applications, from education to laboratory analyses.

2. Purgen, obtained by the action of phenol on phthalic anhydride; a crystalline substance employed as a reagent, being turned red by alkalies, and as a purgative in doses of gr. 1-5 (0.06-0.3).

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for PHENOLPHTHALEIN

The word "phenolphthalein" has its etymology rooted in Greek and German.

The first component of the word, "pheno-" is derived from the Greek word "phaino", which means "to appear" or "to show". This is related to the compound's property of changing color to indicate pH levels.

The second component, "-lphthalein", originates from an older German term called "phthalsäure", meaning "phthalic acid", along with the Greek suffix "-in", which is often added to compound names. Phthalic acid is a white crystalline substance used in the production of dyes.

Combining these elements, "phenolphthalein" refers to a compound that exhibits a color change, derived from phthalsäure, indicating its connection to phthalic acid.

Plural form of PHENOLPHTHALEIN is PHENOLPHTHALEINS