Which of the following tests is generally used to detect the presence of carbohydrates in a given sample?

Step-by-step solution

Molisch's test is a general test for all carbohydrates. In this test, carbohydrates when treated with concentrated sulphuric acid undergo dehydration to form furfural or its derivatives, which then condense with -naphthol to form a violet-coloured complex at the junction of two layers. Benedict's test is used specifically for reducing sugars. Biuret test is used to detect the presence of peptide bonds in proteins. Tollens' test is used to detect aldehydes and reducing sugars. Answer: Molisch's test