What will be the effect on litmus paper when methyl amine is used?
To determine the effect of methylamine on litmus paper, you need to understand the properties of both substances.
Litmus paper is an indicator used to determine whether a solution is acidic or basic. It contains a mixture of dyes that change color depending on the pH of the solution it comes into contact with. In an acidic solution, the litmus paper turns red, while in a basic solution, it turns blue.
Methylamine, on the other hand, is a weak base with a fishy odor. It can act as a Lewis base by accepting a proton (H+) from an acid.
Based on these properties, we can predict the effect of methylamine on litmus paper. When methylamine comes into contact with litmus paper that is initially red, it will act as a base and accept a proton, causing the litmus paper to turn blue. Conversely, if the litmus paper is initially blue, methylamine will not have any noticeable effect on it.
So, to answer your question, when methylamine is used on litmus paper, it will turn the litmus paper blue if it is initially red.