Final answer:
The Iodine Test for Starch is used to determine the presence of starch in biological materials, with a blue-violet color change indicating starch presence. While primarily qualitative, it can also be used for quantitative analysis. Safety precautions, including wearing goggles, are important during the procedure.
Step-by-step explanation:
The purpose of the Iodine Test for Starch is to determine the presence of starch in biological materials. The test involves adding iodine solution to a starch sample, which will result in a blue-violet color if starch is present. This reaction occurs because the iodine interacts with the amylose component of starch, forming a complex that has a characteristic color. While this test is primarily qualitative, indicating the presence or absence of starch, it can also be adapted for quantitative analysis to measure the concentration of starch in a sample through more intricate procedures such as spectrophotometry or titration.
In a typical procedure, 2 milliliters of starch solution are placed into a test tube, followed by a few drops of iodine solution. Observing the color change can indicate the presence of starch. Safety precautions, such as wearing goggles, are essential when working with chemicals like iodine and when heat is applied during laboratory tests.