1. Presentation of techniques

In this article, we have chosen to present techniques selected for their generality and designed to identify the most common functions in organic chemistry. Bibliographical references complement these examples and extend the field of application to other functional groups. A final section is devoted to recent applications of these techniques.

Generally speaking, each technique is presented as follows. The principle of the reaction is explained, along with its possible sequences, followed by an indication of the staining or fluorescence obtained.

In most cases, the reaction scheme is known and accompanies the reaction statement. The indication of the wavelength at maximum absorption in colorimetry or ultraviolet spectrometry is followed by an indication of the optimum test sample. These have been established on the basis of results obtained...