Water Into Wine

This demonstration uses the pH indicator phenolphthalein and sodium carbonate to make water appear to turn into wine or blood. The liquid changes from colorless to pink or red under basic conditions, and can be reversed to clear again by adding acid or blowing carbon dioxide into the solution.

1. Place a small amount of sodium carbonate in the bottom of one glass.
2. In a second glass, mix water with about 10 drops of phenolphthalein solution.
3. Pour the phenolphthalein mixture into the first glass and swirl—watch it turn red.
4. To turn the “wine” back into “water,” blow gently into the liquid or add a little acid solution.

Science behind water to wine - Imagination Station Toledo:

📄 Water Into Wine or Blood Chemistry Demonstration - Science Notes: https://sciencenotes.org/water-into-wine-or-blood-chem-demo/

• Use three glasses: one for sodium carbonate, one for phenolphthalein solution, and one with dilute acid to cycle the colors.
• Present in wine glasses for a more dramatic effect.
• Try the water to wine to milk to beer variation with other pH-sensitive mixtures.

• Do not drink the solutions—phenolphthalein can have harmful effects.
• Wear goggles and gloves when handling sodium carbonate and acids.
• Dispose of the liquid safely down the drain with plenty of water.

• Why does blowing into the liquid change it back to colorless? (Carbon dioxide forms carbonic acid, neutralizing the base.)
• What pH range causes phenolphthalein to appear red? (Between about pH 8.2 and 10.)
• How could this demonstration be used to introduce acid-base titrations?