Biochemistry- Hydrolysis of Wool in Strong Base

Hydrolysis of Wool in Strong Base

Description: The protein bound in wool is hydrolyzed by boiling in sodium hydroxide solution. Human hair also works.

Source: UW Card Catalog

Keywords: Wool, Hydrolysis, Sodium hydroxide, Protein, Heat

Rating:

Hazard:  Some

• Acute aquatic toxicity hazard
• Skin corrosion hazard
• Inhalation hazard
• Burn hazard
• Electric shock hazard
• Corrosive to metals

Effectiveness: Good

• Results are clearly observable without guidance
• Good connection from demo to course material
• Clear contrast between systems behavior
• Time to results is high

Difficulty: Medium

• Use of toxic chemicals
• Some concerted manipulations
• Experiments at non-standard conditions
• Use of strong base
• Simple procedures

Safety Precautions:

• Eye protection required
• Gloves required
• Lab coat recommended
• Perform in a well-ventilated area
• Use of UL approved three-prong plug and outlet
• Absorbent materials on hand
• Sodium bicarbonate on hand
• Avoid exposure to droplets, mists, or vapors
• Prevent release of reagents to the environment

Class: Biochemistry, Acids and Bases

Division: General, Biological Chemistry

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