Final answer:
The Benedict's assay is a test used to detect the presence of reducing sugars in a solution. It involves adding Benedict's reagent to the solution and heating it. The formation of a colored precipitate indicates the presence of reducing sugars.
Step-by-step explanation:
Benedict's assay is a test used to detect the presence of reducing sugars, particularly glucose, in a solution. The test involves adding Benedict's reagent, which contains copper ions, to the solution and heating it. If reducing sugars are present, they will react with the copper ions, resulting in the formation of a colored precipitate. The color of the precipitate can indicate the concentration of reducing sugars present.