Reinsch test
Reinsch Test
The Reinsch Test (pronounced: /ˈraɪnʃ tɛst/) is a preliminary toxicological test used to screen for the presence of certain heavy metals in a biological sample.
Etymology
The test is named after its developer, German chemist Karl Reinsch (1803–1873). The term "Reinsch" is of German origin, while "test" is derived from the Old French "test", meaning "small vessel".
Procedure
The Reinsch Test involves the immersion of a copper strip in a solution of the biological sample that has been acidified. If heavy metals are present, they will deposit on the copper strip, causing it to change color. The color change can then be used to identify the specific heavy metal present.
Related Terms
- Toxicology: The study of the adverse effects of chemicals on living organisms.
- Heavy Metals: A loosely defined subset of elements that exhibit metallic properties, which includes some transition metals, some metalloids, lanthanides, and actinides.
- Biological Sample: Any bodily fluid or tissue that is collected for laboratory analysis.
- Copper Strip: A thin piece of copper used in various chemical tests.
- Acidified: The process of making something acidic, often by adding an acid.
Limitations
While the Reinsch Test is useful for initial screening, it is not definitive. Further confirmatory tests are required to accurately identify and quantify the specific heavy metals present.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Reinsch test
- Wikipedia's article - Reinsch test
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