The , more commonly known as the Molisch test , is a highly sensitive qualitative chemical assay used to detect the presence of carbohydrates in a given sample. Named after the Austrian botanist Hans Molisch , it serves as a preliminary screening tool to differentiate carbohydrates from other biomolecules like proteins and lipids. Principle of the Test
The reaction depends on the ability of strong mineral acids to carbohydrates. Dehydration: When concentrated sulfuric acid ( H2SO4cap H sub 2 cap S cap O sub 4 alpha-naphthol test
) is added to the sample, it dehydrates the carbohydrates into aldehyde derivatives. (5-carbon sugars) form furfural . Hexoses (6-carbon sugars) form 5-hydroxymethylfurfural . The , more commonly known as the Molisch