How to Measure Ascorbic Acid

The ascobic acid measurement in citrus fruits can be measured easily and quickly.

Ascorbic acid can be found in all citrus fruits, such as oranges, lemons and limes. By measuring ascorbic acid, you are testing the acid content of the item. For example, a powdered orange juice drink will have a specific ascorbic-acid level depending on the dilution rate of the water mixed into it. These levels can be measured by using test strips that are readily available to the public.

Things You'll Need

• Set of pH testing strips, 0-4 pH range

Instructions

1. Remove the cover of a pH test strip container, and pull a strip out. Test strips are available at medical supply shops, science hobby stores and online.

2. Dip the test strip into any liquid which contains ascorbic acid. Juice drinks, juice concentrates or any beverage flavored with a citrus product can be tested. Test strips can also be rubbed on the flesh of citrus fruits for an ascorbic acid measurement.

3. Remove the strip from the liquid or surface of the item that was tested. Compare the reading on the test strip with the chart on the test strip container. The color on the strip will match a corresponding color on the container that will accurately measure the ascorbic acid content.

References

• Laboratory Equipment: Single-Use pH Test Strips
• University of Michigan, Flint: Determination of the Amount of Total Acidity in Orange Juice

Resources

• lndigo Instruments: Indicator Strips pH 0-2.5, Lemon Juice, Battery Acid
• Whatman: pH Indicators and Test Papers