Final answer:
Lugol's Iodine Solution is used to test for the presence of starch in a substance, which will result in a dark blue or black color change if starch is present.
Step-by-step explanation:
Lugol's Iodine Solution is commonly used in biochemical testing to identify the presence of starch. When Lugol's iodine is added to a solution containing starch, a color change to a dark blue, almost black color occurs. This test is a simple way to confirm the presence of complex carbohydrates like starch in various substances.
During a typical test for starch, the procedure involves adding 2 milliliters of a starch solution to a test tube, followed by a few drops of iodine solution. If starch is present, the solution will change to a dark blue or black. It is important to note that safety precautions should be taken, such as wearing goggles, when handling chemicals like iodine solution or Benedict's solution, and when working with heat or fire in a laboratory setting.
Iodine is not only used for starch detection but also serves as an oxidizing titrant for analyzing a variety of substances, including pharmaceutical compounds. For example, iodine can be used for titration in the analysis of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and the amino acid cysteine.