Description
Chemical Name: Bromocresol Green
Synonyms: 3′,3”,5′,5”-Tetrabromo-m-cresolsulfonphthalein, Bromcresol Green, BCG, Tetrabromo-m-cresolsulfonephthalein, Bromo-cresol Green
Molecular Structure:
Specifications
Items | Specifications |
Cas No. | 76-60-8 |
Molecular Formula | C21H14Br4O5S |
Molecular Weight | 698.01 g/mol |
Appearance | Yellow to light green powder |
PH Range | 3.8(Yellow Green)-5.4(Blue) |
Residue On Ignition | 0.25% Max |
What is Bromocresol Green CAS 76-60-8?
Bromocresol Green (BCG) is a chemical compound widely used as a pH indicator in laboratory settings, scientific research, and various industrial applications. Known for its distinctive color-changing properties, Bromocresol Green plays a crucial role in many analytical procedures.
The chemical properties of Bromocresol Green
Bromocresol Green, with the chemical formula C21H14Br4O5S, is a sulfonephthalein dye. It typically appears as a yellowish or light green powder in its solid form. When dissolved in a solution, its color shifts dramatically based on the pH level: it is yellow in acidic environments (pH < 3.8) and blue in alkaline conditions (pH > 5.4). This color change makes it highly effective for applications requiring pH measurement or monitoring.
The Uses of Bromocresol Green or BCG
The versatility of Bromocresol Green allows it to be used across various industries and research fields:
- pH Indicator: Bromocresol Green is primarily employed as a pH indicator. Its color shift from yellow to blue makes it ideal for monitoring pH changes in titrations, buffers, and other analytical methods.
- Diagnostic Testing: In medical and biochemical laboratories, Bromocresol Green is utilized in diagnostic tests, particularly for measuring serum albumin concentrations in blood samples, which is essential for assessing liver and kidney function.
- Staining Agent: It is also used as a dye in microscopy to stain proteins in biological samples, enabling researchers to visualize and study them in more detail.
- Textile and Industrial Applications: In some cases, Bromocresol Green can be used in textile dyeing processes or other industries that require pH-sensitive dyes.
Mechanism of Action
Bromocresol Green functions by interacting with hydrogen ions (H+) in a solution. In acidic conditions, where there is a higher concentration of hydrogen ions, the dye remains in its protonated form, which appears yellow. As the pH increases and the solution becomes less acidic, Bromocresol Green loses hydrogen ions, resulting in the deprotonated blue form. This clear and distinct color change makes it an effective tool in various applications.
Safety and Handling of Bromocresol Green
As with many laboratory chemicals, Bromocresol Green should be handled with care. While it is not considered highly hazardous, it is important to avoid inhalation, ingestion, or prolonged contact with skin. Proper protective equipment, such as gloves and goggles, should be used when working with this substance.
All in all, Bromocresol Green is a versatile chemical compound that has widespread use due to its unique ability to indicate pH changes through a distinct color shift. Whether in the lab as a pH indicator, in diagnostic tests, or as a staining agent, Bromocresol Green is an essential tool in various scientific and industrial processes. Its accuracy and reliability make it a popular choice in fields ranging from chemistry and biology to medical diagnostics.
