Tetrabromophenol blue (TBPB) is widely used as a pH indicator in various analytical applications. It is particularly effective in titration experiments, where it helps to visually determine the endpoint of acid-base reactions. The indicator changes color in response to pH variations, typically transitioning from yellow in acidic conditions to blue in alkaline environments. This property makes it valuable in educational laboratories for teaching students about pH and titration techniques.

In biochemistry, TBPB is employed in gel electrophoresis to monitor the progress of protein separation. It is often added to loading buffers to track the movement of samples through the gel, ensuring accurate analysis. Additionally, TBPB is used in environmental testing to assess water quality, as it can indicate the presence of acidic or basic substances in water samples. Its stability and distinct color change make it a reliable tool in both research and industrial settings.