Final answer:
The starch hydrolysis test is used to determine the presence of starch and the activity of the enzyme amylase. pH indicators can be used to monitor the changes in acidity or alkalinity of the medium. The test involves mixing a starch solution with amylase and incubating it.
Step-by-step explanation:
The starch hydrolysis test is used to determine the presence of starch and the activity of the enzyme amylase. Outside of the lab, the test can be enhanced by using pH indicators to monitor the changes in acidity or alkalinity of the medium. pH indicators can help determine the optimal conditions for starch hydrolysis by amylase.
In the test, a starch solution is mixed with amylase and incubated. If amylase is active, it breaks down the starch into smaller molecules called dextrins. The presence of dextrins can be detected using iodine solution, which turns blue-black when it reacts with dextrins. The absence of dextrins indicates that amylase is not active or not present.