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Analysis of
Quinine in Tonic Water
by Filter-Fluorometry


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INTRODUCTION:

     There are many WAVELENGTHS of Energy in the Electromagnetic Spectrum; from the ultra-short region of X-Rays to the very long wavelengths of Microwaves. In between is a spectral region of Light called the UV-VIS (Ultra-Violet / Visible) Spectrum. These wavelengths of energy; from 190nm. beginning in the UV through 900nm. at the end of the VIS; can generate a tremendous amount of descriptive information about molecules that ABSORB certain portions of this Spectrum.
     Certain AROMATIC Organic compounds (based on the Benzene molecule) will absorb UV (invisible to the human eye) Light and give off (FLUORESCE) in a VISIBLE Light wavelength. It is the proper selection of the EXCITATION Filter (EX) Wavelength and the EMISSION Filter (EM) Wavelength that allows a very sensitive and selective analysis.

PURPOSE:

     Quinine is a plant-derived, Alkaloid DRUG that has been used to treat diseases such as Malaria and other parasitic infections.
      Because of its complex molecular structure, Quinine is also FLUORESCENT, and has a pale Blue response when exposed to UV light. BY running a KNOWN Quinine Standard, we can evaluate several different brands of Tonic Waters for their actual Quinine content.

FUN-SCI Kit: Includes all supplies Buy it!

INSTRUMENTS NEEDED:

  • Model Mini FL-900 / 380 Fluorometer w/ Fluorescent Filter set (from BUCK Scientific) Buy it!
  • Filter Set for EXCITATION at 390 & 460nm. and EMISSION Response range of 540-700nm Buy it!
  • 10mm. square Quartz Fluorescence Cuvettes (clear on ALL 4 sides, unlike regular Spectro cuvettes) Buy it!

    SUPPLIES:
  1. Vial of 100 PPM Quinine Standard in Water
  2. Set of THREE Brands of Tonic Water: Schwepps, Canada Dry & Vintage
  3. Disposable plastic pipets / eyedroppers
  4. Disposable 100ml. Beakers
SAMPLES:
  • Student can bring in other brands or local brands obtained from the supermarket or a liquor or packaged goods store (with parental accompaniment!).
  • EXTRA CREDIT Since 20-30% of the Pharmaceutical materials on the market Fluoresce in the UV, design a project where the students bring in different OTC (over-the-counter) preparations; where the tablet / pill is crushed up and dissolved / extracted with water or an alcohol-water solution, and run on the Fluorometer. Determine a Percent response relative to the Quinine Standard.

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