Carbohydrates

Title of Lab: Test for Biologically Compounds - Carbohydrates, Lipids and Proteins

Aim: To identify biomolecules in samples

Theory: Carbohydrates, lipids and proteins are three of the major macromolecules. Macromolecules are found in all organisms and is very important in carrying out functions needed to keep an organism alive.

Carbohydrates are used as source of energy for cells, structural support and cell-to-cell communication. Lipids are use to store energy and to insulate the body and nerves. Proteins are use as a catalyst, provide mechanical support and it helps protect immune system (antibodies), it is used to transport molecules

Macromolecules are made up of smaller organic molecules. The smaller molecules in Carbohydrates and proteins are called monomers and these monomers are covalently bonded together to form a large polymer.

Carbohydrates monomer unit are called monosaccharides and when two or more monosaccharides are bonded together they form a polymer unit called polysaccharides or complex sugar.

Protein monomer units are called amino acids. When they are strung together in different combination they form a polymer unit called a polypeptide chain.

Lipid units are not monomer based. Lipids are made up of fatty acids and glycerol. When three fatty acid are bond together with a glycerol it creates a triglyceride.

Test can be performed to know whether or not sample has carbohydrate, lipids and proteins and further testing can identify type or amount of each biomolecules

Tests used to identify carbohydrates are Barfoed’s test, Bial’s test, Iodine test, Molisch test, Benedict’s test and Seliwanoff’s test.

Tests used to identify lipids are Sudan III test and Emulsion test

Tests used to identify proteins are The Biuret Reaction and Protein Precipitation.

Procedure: Molisch test

2ml of Molisch reagent was added to 10 drops of sucrose in a test tube and contents were mixed. The test tube was inclined and 1.0mL of conc. Sulphuric poured down...