What is commonly used to determine the pH of a hazardous material?

Litmus paper is a simple and effective tool commonly used to determine the pH of a hazardous material. It works by changing color in response to the hydrogen ion concentration in a solution, allowing users to quickly assess whether a substance is acidic or alkaline. This qualitative method provides immediate results, making it practical for field situations or emergency responses where time is critical.

While other methods for assessing pH exist, such as pH meters, indicator solutions, and pH test strips, litmus paper is often favored due to its ease of use and rapid results without the need for more intricate setups or calibration. Each of these alternatives has its own applications and benefits depending on the specific circumstance, but litmus paper remains a popular choice for quick assessments of hazardous materials in various environments.