Preparation of Lassaigne’s Extract

In order to detect the elements in organic compounds, they have to be converted into their ionic forms. This is done by fusing the organic compound with sodium metal. The ionic compounds formed during the fusion are extracted in aqueous solution and can be detected by simple chemical tests. The extract is called sodium fusion extract or Lassaigne’s extract.

This video explains how to prepare Lassaigne’s extract of the given organic compound.