Using natural plant extracts as acid-base indicators and pKa value calculation method

Abstract

Natural plant extracts have garnered significant attention in recent years due to their diverse chemical compositions and potential applications in various scientific fields. This study explores the utilization of these extracts as acid-base indicators, offering an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic indicators. By harnessing the inherent pH-sensitive properties of plant compounds, particularly anthocyanins, this research aims to determine their pKa values, crucial for understanding their behavior in acid-base reactions. Through spectrophotometric analysis, the absorbance changes of plant extracts across a range of pH levels are examined, allowing for the identification of their pKa values. The experimental findings elucidate the efficacy of natural plant extracts as indicators and provide valuable insights into their potential applications in analytical chemistry and beyond.