Final answer:
Benedict's test is performed in a diffusion lab to detect the presence of reducing sugars like glucose in a sample, helping in the diagnosis of conditions such as diabetes mellitus. The test results in a color change that correlates with the sugar concentration.
Step-by-step explanation:
In a diffusion lab, the specific purpose of completing Benedict's test is c) To detect the presence of reducing sugars. This test is crucial for identifying the existence of glucose or other reducing sugars in a sample, such as urine, which can help in screening for conditions like diabetes mellitus. When reducing sugars are present, they react with the copper in Benedict's solution to form a colored precipitate, with the intensity of the color change corresponding to the sugar concentration. It's a semi-quantitative method that results in color changes from green to brick red, indicating increasing concentrations of glucose. Benedict's test is very specific and does not react with other substances such as uric acid and creatinine that may also be present in urine.
Always remember to follow safety protocols, including wearing goggles when working with Benedict's solution and any heat source in the laboratory environment.