For AS level OCR Biology, PAG 02 - reducing sugars experiment, what changes would you make to obtain semi-quantitative results?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for suggestions on modifications to the reducing sugars experiment in the context of AS level OCR Biology to achieve semi-quantitative results, which typically involves obtaining approximate measurements rather than exact amounts.
Answer
Use a color chart or colorimeter to estimate sugar concentration by comparing color intensity.
To obtain semi-quantitative results for reducing sugars using Benedict's solution, you can compare the intensity of the color change to a standard chart or use a colorimeter to measure absorbance. This allows estimation of sugar concentration based on the color intensity.
Answer for screen readers
To obtain semi-quantitative results for reducing sugars using Benedict's solution, you can compare the intensity of the color change to a standard chart or use a colorimeter to measure absorbance. This allows estimation of sugar concentration based on the color intensity.
More Information
The Benedict's test involves a color change from blue to shades of red/brown depending on the concentration of reducing sugars. Using a colorimeter can provide a more precise semi-quantitative measure by calculating absorbance.
Tips
A common mistake is not calibrating the colorimeter correctly or not using a consistent method to compare color changes, which can lead to inaccurate estimates.
Sources
- Biochemical Tests: Reducing Sugars & Starch (OCR A Level Biology) - savemyexams.com
