Examination on the Applicability of the Phenol Sulfuric Acid Method to the Determination of Dissolved Carbohydrate in Sea Water

Abstract

The applicability of phenol sulfuric acid method to the determination of total carbohydrate in sea water is discussed. When treated with phenol and concentrated sulfuric acid, carbohydrates give an yellow-brown color, the color is strong and the formed chromatophore is stable enough to determine the carbohydrate in sea water. The effect of inorganic micro-elements and some organic compounds possibly to be found in sea water on the formation of chromatophore is examined. Except eugenol, tested agents gave no effect when the sulfuric acid used contains reducing agents. The eugenol effect can be removed by the extraction procedure with organic solvent.