Eriochrome Black T is commonly used as indicator for the above titration. At pH 10, Ca2+(aq) ion first complexes with the indicator as CaIn+(aq) which is wine red. As the stronger ligand EDTA is added, the CaIn+(aq) complex is replaced by the CaY2-(aq) complex which is blue. The end point of titration is indicated by a sharp colour change from wine red to blue.
Titration using Eriochrome Black T as indicator determines total hardness due to Ca2+(aq) and Mg2+(aq) ions. Hardness due to Ca2+(aq) ion is determined by a separate titration at a higher pH, by adding NaOH solution to precipitate Mg(OH)2(s), using hydroxynaphthol blue as indicator.