Molisch's Test- Definition, Principle, Procedure, Result, Uses
Molisch Test Definition Molisch's Test is a general test for all carbohydrates. Objectives of Molisch Test To identify the presence of carbohydrates in a given sample. To differentiate carbohydrates from other biomolecules. Principle of Molisch Test Diagrammatically representation of the principle of Molisch's Test Image Source: AlexNB , Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Concentrated sulphuric acid dehydrates carbohydrates to give furfural (in the case of pentoses) and furfural derivatives (in the case of hexoses and heptoses). These furfural derivatives condense with alpha naphthol to form a violet-coloured compound. Oligosaccharides and polysaccharides are first hydrolysed to monosaccharides by concentrated acid. They undergo dehydration to form furfural or its derivatives. Requirements Reagents: Molisch’s Reagent: Dissolve 1 gm α -naphthol in 95% ethyl alcohol and make the volume 100 ml. Concentrated H 2 SO 4 Sugar Sample 1. Materials required