biosensors

Question 1

What is a biosensor?

Answer 1

A device that combines a biomolecule, such as an enzyme, with a transducer, to produce an electrical signal which measures the concentration of a chemical.

Question 2

Describe three advantages of testing blood glucose using a biosensor over the Benedict’s test.

Answer 2

1) Biosensor is specific and will only detect glucose, whereas the Benedict’s test could detect the presence of any reducing sugar.

2) Biosensors can detect far lower concentrations than the Benedict’s test.

3) Result is quantitative, unlike the Benedict’s test which is qualitative (relies on a colour change)