Used as a staining agent in biological and histological applications to detect calcium deposits in tissues, particularly in bone and cartilage studies. It binds to calcium ions, producing a bright red color that helps visualize mineralization under microscopy. Commonly applied in cell culture assays to assess osteoblast differentiation and bone nodule formation. Also utilized in analytical chemistry as a complexometric indicator for metal ion detection, especially in titrations involving calcium and magnesium. Its color change properties make it useful in pH indicator strips and in educational labs for demonstrating chelation and precipitation reactions.