What are the conclusions from testing the Biuret reagent for protein?

Answer 1

The reagent used in the Biuret Test is a solution of copper sulfate (CuSO4) and potassium hydroxide (KOH). The KOH is there to raise the pH of the solution to alkaline levels; the crucial component is the copper (II) ion from the CuSO4. When peptide bonds are present in this alkaline solution, the copper (II) ions will form a coordination complex with four nitrogen atoms involved in peptide bonds. Copper Sulfate solution is a blue colour, but when the copper (II) ions are coordinated with the nitrogen atoms of these peptide bonds, the colour of the solution changes from blue to violet. This colour change is dependent on the number of peptide bonds in the solution, so the more protein, the more intense the change. When the peptides are very short, the solution turns a pink colour, rather than violet.

Answer 2

When biuret reagent is added to egg white (protein), the solution turns lilac or purple.