National Standards for Grade Levels 10-14
 
Qualitative Analysis of Proteins includes seven experiments for examining the principles of protein and amino acid analysis. Ninhydrin is used to detect the presence of amines, indicating the presence of amino acids and/or proteins, the Biuret test is used to detect the presence of peptide bonds, and specific analytical tests are used for determining the presence of specific amino acids:
glutamic acid, glycine, cystine, cysteine, tyrosine, tryptophan, and arginine. Students contrast the solubility of different proteins and amino acids and identify an unknown by applying the techniques they have learned. Required, but not included: concentrated nitric acid, ethanol, hot plates, balances, glassware, and distilled water. Designed for 24 students working in groups of four. Allow two to three hours of lab time depending on extensiveness desired for investigation.