Schiff’s Original Reagent
Solution
| Material | Amount | |
|---|---|---|
| Pararosanilin | 0.025 | g |
| Distilled water | 100 | mL |
| Sulfur dioxide | Gas cylinder | |
Preparation
- Dissolve the pararosanilin into the distilled water.
- Under a fume hood, slowly bubble sulfur dioxide gas through the solution.
- Stopper well and store in the dark for one to two days.
- If not water clear, add activated charcoal and shake for about a minute.
- Filter the solution.
- Store at 0-5°C in a tightly stoppered bottle.
Notes
- Make sure that when you bubble the sulfur dioxide through the pararosanin solution, you are doing so either under a fume hood or outside at an elevation that stops anyone else from smelling it. Sulfur dioxide not only stinks, but it can also be dangerous in heavy doses. Bubble the gas slowly through the solution until it begins to change color, then stopper and place in the dark.
- The solution should be colorless or very pale amber. Brown solutions will often stain poorly. Usually, these have been made from a batch of basic fuchsin containing too little pararosanilin.
Safety Note
Prior to handling any chemical, consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for proper handling and safety precautions.
References
- Gray, Peter. (1954)
The Microtomist’s Formulary and Guide.
Originally published by: The Blakiston Co.
Republished by: Robert E. Krieger Publishing Co.
Citing:
Schiff, (1886). Annals de chimie (et de physique), v. 140, p. 93
