Category: Chemical testing

In organic chemistry, the distinction between saturated and unsaturated molecules is fundamental, with over 19 million organic compounds known today. Determining this difference can be done through visual inspection of the molecular structure, which reveals the presence of single, double, or triple bonds. For unknown compounds, chemists can rely on reliable chemical tests that produce a visible reaction based on the molecule's bonding.

The Biuret test is a common chemical test used to detect the presence of proteins, and relies on the reaction of copper ions with peptide bonds in an alkaline solution. A drink suspected of containing protein can be easily analyzed with this qualitative method, providing a clear visual result.

Approximately 75% of the world's population is lactose intolerant, highlighting the commonality of disaccharides like lactose in our food supply. Knowing how to tell if it's a disaccharide is crucial for chemists and food scientists, involving simple lab tests that reveal their unique chemical structure, a double sugar formed from two monosaccharides.

The Seliwanoff test, a common method for distinguishing ketoses from aldoses, relies on a chemical reaction involving concentrated hydrochloric acid and resorcinol. Due to the use of these hazardous substances and a heating step, stringent precautions are necessary to protect laboratory personnel and guarantee accurate results.

Over 50% of website traffic comes from organic search, and for many queries, users are looking for reliable scientific information. In biochemistry, understanding how to determine reducing and non-reducing sugars is a fundamental skill for differentiating between different types of carbohydrates based on their chemical structure.

A 2023 review noted that illegal formaldehyde adulteration in food is a common practice globally to extend shelf-life. Therefore, knowing how to detect formaldehyde in food is essential for consumer protection and health, as this chemical is a known toxin associated with serious health problems when consumed.