Essay On The Beta Carotene Test Lab

To uncover organic compounds like carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acid, by using tests like Benedict, Lugol, Biuret and Beta Carotene. Each test was used to determine the presents of different organic molecules in substances. The substances that were tested for in each unknown sample were sugars, starches, fats, and oils. Moreover, carbohydrates are divided into two categories, simple and complex sugars. Additionally, for nonreducing sugars, according to Stanley R. Benedict, the bond is broken only by high heat to make make the molecules have a free aldehydes (Benedict). As for Lipids, there are two categories saturated and unsaturated fats. One of the difference is that saturated fats are mostly solids and have no double bond (Campbell Biology 73). The Beta Carotene test works by dissolving in a lipid, thus giving it color to make it visible. Moreover, proteins are made out of amino acids that are linked by a polypeptide bond (Campbell Biology 75). The purpose of this experiment was to determine whether an unknown class sample or food sample had any carbohydrates, lipids, or proteins in it. The expected result of the lab was that some substances would be present while other would be absent.

Materials and Methods : The first

According to Sara Florine, “Starch, which is a complex carbohydrate composed of glucose molecules bound together, is a major component of [corn]” (Florine). Thus, the Lugol’s test came back “black” or positive. Furthermore, the results can be backed up by the nutrition label on a Chex cereal box, which has corn listed as one of the main ingredients in the cereal, which is a strach. (EWG’S Food Scores) Additionally, according to the Environmental Working Group, Chex cereal is also made with and processed with corn oil. (EWG’S Food Scores). It is a small amount of oil, but nonetheless its enough to make the Beta Carotene test come back positive for