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  Home > JCE Print > Journal of Chemical Education > Issues > 2008  > July  >
In the Laboratory
Separation of the Carotenoid Bixin from Annatto Seeds Using Thin-Layer and Column Chromatography
James V. McCullagh and Nicholas Ramos
Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Manhattan College, Riverdale, NY 10471-4098
Cover
July 2008
Vol. 85 No. 7
p. 948

Abstract
In this experiment the carotenoid bixin is isolated from annatto (Bixa orellana) seeds using column chromatography. The experiment has several key advantages over previous pigment separation experiments. First, unlike other experiments significant quantities of the carotenoid (typically 20 to 25 mg) can be isolated from small quantities of plant material. Second, in this experiment students learn how to choose the appropriate solvent for a chromatographic separation by analyzing several potential solvents using thin-layer chromatography. After isolation, the purified bixin is analyzed by UV–vis and IR spectroscopy.

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Supplement
Student handouts; Instructor notes including the UV–vis data, separation flowchart, photos of the TLC plates, and IR spectra
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Contents
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Citation
McCullagh, James V.; Ramos, Nicholas. J. Chem. Educ. 2008, 85, 948.
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Keywords
Chromatography; Dyes / Pigments; Hands-On Learning / Manipulatives; Laboratory Instruction; Natural Products; Organic Chemistry; Second-Year Undergraduate; Separation Science; Thin Layer Chromatography; UV-Vis Spectroscopy
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History
Created:
Last Updated:
5/27/2008
6/4/2008
 Caution! 
Experiments, laboratory exercises, lecture demonstrations, and other descriptions of the use of chemicals, apparatus, instruments, computers, and computer interfaces are presented in the Journal of Chemical Education as illustrative of new or improved ideas or concepts in chemistry instruction and are directed at qualified teachers. Although every effort is made to assure and encourage safe practices and safe use of chemicals, the Journal of Chemical Education cannot assume responsibility for uses made of its published materials. Many chemicals are hazardous. Precautions for the safe use of hazardous chemicals and directions for their proper disposal are described in the Material Safety Data Sheets and on the labels. We strongly urge all those planning to use materials from our pages to make choices and to develop procedures for laboratory and classroom safety in accordance with local needs and situations.
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