Question

‘Litmus’, a natural dye, is an extract of which of the following?
A.China rose (Gudhal)
B.Beetroot
C.Lichen
D.Blueberries (Jamun)

Answer 1

Natural dyes are colorants or dyes obtained from plants, invertebrates, or minerals. Dyes derived from plants, wood, and other biological sources such as fungi account for the majority of natural dyes.

Complete answer: Litmus is a chemical indicator that can be used to determine if a compound is acidic or basic. There are two forms of litmus: red litmus and blue litmus. Bases turn red litmus blue, while acids turn blue litmus red.

A.China rose : China rose turns acidic solutions dark pink, basic solutions green, and neutral solutions remain colourless. Litmus is not an extract of China rose. Hence this is not the correct answer.

B.Beetroot : In animals, beetroot extract has been shown to minimise tumour cell division and development. Litmus is not an extract of Beetroot. Hence this is not the correct answer.

C.Lichen : Litmus is a water-soluble mixture of various lichen-derived natural dyes. Litmus is one of the oldest types of acid-base measure which is used to test materials for acidity. Litmus is an extract of Lichen. Hence this is the correct answer.

D.Blueberries : Blueberry extract is a natural health supplement derived from blueberry juice which has been concentrated. Litmus is not an extract of Blueberries. Hence this is not the correct answer.
Therefore, the correct option is C) Lichen.

Note:
Natural dyes are used to colour textiles, vegetables, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Small amounts of dyes are also used to colour paper, leather, shoe polish, wood, cane, candles, and other materials.