Is the distilled water acidic/basic/neutral? How would you verify it?

Distilled water is commonly considered neutral, but it can lean towards being slightly acidic or basic based on its exposure to carbon dioxide in the air. To verify the neutrality of distilled water, a few tests can be conducted:

pH Test: Employ a pH test strip or a pH meter to measure the water’s pH. Ideally, distilled water should register close to 7, indicating neutrality. A pH value around 7 confirms its neutral nature.

Litmus Paper Test: Dip red and blue litmus paper into the distilled water separately. If both types of litmus paper remain unchanged in color, the water is neutral. Red litmus turns blue in the presence of a base (alkaline), while blue litmus turns red in the presence of an acid.

Conductivity Test: Distilled water, lacking ions, exhibits poor conductivity. Use a conductivity meter to test its ability to conduct electricity. Minimal or no conductivity suggests the absence of ions, supporting its neutrality.

These methods serve to verify the neutrality of distilled water by ensuring its pH is close to 7 and it lacks significant acidic or basic properties.