Schiff test
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The Schiff test named after Hugo Schiff is a chemical test for the detection of aldehydes. An unknown sample is added to the decolorized Schiff reagent and when aldehyde is present a characteristic magenta or purple color develops. The Schiff reagent is the reaction product of Fuchsine and sodium bisulfite. Human skin also contains aldehydes and gets stained as well.
Schiff reagents are used for various staining methods, eg. Feulgen stain and periodic acid-Schiff stain.
