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Draw resonance structures to demonstrate the changes in the chromophore during this change in ph of methyl orange
Accepted Answer
Methyl orange is an acid-base indicator that changes color from red in acidic solutions to yellow in basic solutions. The color change is due to the deprotonation of the azo group (-N=N-), which is the chromophore (the part of the molecule responsible for color).
In acidic conditions, the azo group is protonated, giving it a red color. In basic conditions, the azo group is deprotonated, giving it a yellow color.
Here's a simplified representation of the resonance structures involved in the color change:
Acidic Form (Red):
[Structure of protonated methyl orange, showing the azo group with a positive charge]
Basic Form (Yellow):
[Structure of deprotonated methyl orange, showing the azo group with a negative charge]
The delocalization of electrons in the azo group contributes to the chromophore's color. The protonation/deprotonation of the azo group affects this electron delocalization, resulting in a change in color.
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