Phenols turn blue litmus red. True or False?

Answer

To determine whether the statement "Phenols turn blue litmus red" is true or false, we can analyze the properties of phenols and their behavior in litmus tests.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Litmus Test**: The litmus test is used to determine whether a solution is acidic or basic. Blue litmus paper turns red in acidic solutions, while red litmus paper turns blue in basic solutions.

2. **Nature of Phenols**: Phenols are organic compounds that contain a hydroxyl group (-OH) attached to an aromatic hydrocarbon. They have weak acidic properties due to the ability of the hydroxyl group to donate a proton (H⁺).

3. **Testing Phenol with Litmus Paper**: When phenol is dissolved in water, it can slightly dissociate to release H⁺ ions, making the solution mildly acidic.

4. **Effect on Blue Litmus Paper**: When blue litmus paper is introduced to a phenolic solution, the acidic nature of the phenol will cause the blue litmus paper to turn red.

5. **Conclusion**: Since phenol can cause blue litmus paper to turn red, the statement "Phenols turn blue litmus red" is true.

### Final Answer:
True.

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