RUSSELL MARKER Meaning and
Definition
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Russell marker refers to a chemical compound that is commonly used as a reagent to identify the presence or absence of unsaturation in organic molecules. It derives its name from its creator, Richard E. Marker, an American chemist who developed this test during the early 20th century.
The Russell marker test is primarily used to differentiate between double and triple bonds in unsaturated compounds. It relies on the reaction between the marker compound and the unsaturated functional groups present in the organic molecule. This reaction results in the formation of distinct colored precipitates, allowing for a visual determination of the nature of unsaturation.
Typically, a mixture of Russell marker and the unknown organic compound is prepared and heated. As the reaction takes place, a color change occurs that varies depending on the type of unsaturated bond present. For example, if the compound contains a double bond, a deep blue precipitate is usually observed, while a purple precipitate signifies the presence of a triple bond.
The Russell marker test is widely employed in organic chemistry laboratories as a simple and effective method for identifying the presence of unsaturation. It plays a crucial role in the characterization and analysis of various organic compounds and allows chemists to distinguish between different types of bonds in a molecule.
