LABORATORY 3:
LABORATORY 3:

Basic Chemistry for Investigating Living Systems

Abstract
The purpose of this experiment was to explain how colorimetry can be used to qualitatively detect cellular chemical components; to chemically differentiate between proteins, sugars, starches, and lipids; to identify the roles of molecular components in living systems; to comprehend the value of using a systematic approach to research; and to describe why hypotheses, controls, standards, and quality control are important in scientific research (Vorndam, 2002, p. 92).

Basic Chemistry for Investigating Living Systems

Abstract
The purpose of this experiment was to explain how colorimetry can be used to qualitatively detect cellular chemical
Shake well and allow the amylase to dissolve before proceeding. Discard any distilled water remaining in the beaker. Store the alpha-amylase dropper bottle solution in a refrigerator when not in use to reduce the rate of bacterial degradation. (Vorndam, 2002, p. 97-98)

Calculation example for preparing a 1% solution: 0.10 g alpha-amylase powder is ~ equivalent to 0.10 mL when mixed in water, so 0.10 mL ÷ 10 mL x 100 = 1%. (Vorndam, 2002, p. 98)

0.4% Potato Starch Solution Preparation, used in Exercises 1, 2, 3, 4:
Locate the dropper bottle containing the 1% potato starch solution. Shake well. Drip a small amount of the potato starch solution into a clean beaker. Use the graduated pipet to remove 5 mL of the solution from the beaker and place it in the clean graduated cylinder. Pour distilled water into a clean beaker. Use the beaker or to carefully add distilled water up to the 12.5-mL mark on the graduated cylinder containing the potato starch solution. It helps if you use a long-stemmed pipet to control the water when the solution is close to the 12.5-mL mark. Ensure that the bottom of the meniscus is right at 12.5 mL when the graduated cylinder is held at eye level. Place the solution from the graduated cylinder into a clean jar. Cover with a lid, aluminum foil, or plastic wrap until needed. Use the marker pencil to label the jar or a piece of masking tape placed on the jar as “0.4% potato starch.” Discard any distilled water that remains in the