What is the function of a chemical indicator?

A chemical indicator serves the specific function of changing color based on pH levels. This is crucial in various chemical and biological processes where monitoring acidity or alkalinity is necessary. Indicators are used in titrations and various laboratory settings to visually signal the endpoint of a reaction or to determine the pH of a solution without needing complex instrumentation.

The ability of these indicators to undergo a color change at specific pH ranges allows for a quick and convenient assessment of the solution's acidity or basicity. This characteristic is vital in many applications where precise pH levels are required for optimal reactions or processes.

Other options, such as catalyzing a reaction, measuring temperature, or increasing solubility, pertain to different chemical functions but do not relate to the primary role of a chemical indicator in providing immediate visual feedback about pH levels.