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Question:

Which of the following compounds can be detected by Molisch's test?

Sugars

Amines

Nitro compounds

Primary alcohols

Solution:

When a drop of alcoholic solution of α-naphthol is added to sugar solution, and then concentrated H₂SO₄ is added along the sides of the test tube, formation of a violet colored liquid takes place at the junction of two liquids. This is called 'Molisch's test'. Molisch's test is a chemical test which is used to check for the presence of carbohydrates in a given analyte. This test is named after Czech-Austrian botanist Hans Molisch, who is credited with its discovery. Option B is correct.