A test tube containing a solution of RNA would turn blue if Dische diphenylamine test reagent is added. True False
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer: False
Explanation:
The Dische diphenylamine test is a chemical test specifically used to detect deoxyribose, the sugar found in DNA. It is not intended to detect ribose, the sugar found in RNA. The test works by reacting with the deoxyribose sugar in acidic conditions to produce a blue-colored complex. Therefore, only DNA-containing solutions give a blue color when treated with Dische diphenylamine reagent.
In contrast, RNA contains ribose rather than deoxyribose. The structural difference between the two sugars lies in the presence of a hydroxyl group on the second carbon in ribose, which is absent in deoxyribose. Because of this difference, ribose does not react with the diphenylamine reagent in the same way. As a result, when the Dische test is applied to an RNA solution, no blue coloration develops. There might be a slight color change depending on impurities or experimental conditions, but it is not the characteristic blue that indicates the presence of DNA.
The Dische test is useful in distinguishing between DNA and RNA in biochemical experiments. In situations where it is necessary to confirm the presence of DNA in a sample, the development of a blue color upon adding Dische diphenylamine reagent is a positive indication. Since RNA does not give this result, the test also helps confirm the absence of DNA when no blue color is observed.
To summarize, a test tube containing a solution of RNA would not turn blue when Dische diphenylamine reagent is added. Therefore, the statement is false, because the test is specific for DNA due to its reaction with deoxyribose, not with ribose found in RNA.
