Comparative Study of Estimation Methods for Efficient Extraction of Chlorophyll a and Carotenoids Using Different Solvents

Abstract

Photosynthetic pigments chlorophyll and carotenoids are primary pigments in green plants and algae. These pigments have the potential to turn light energy into chemical energy. In this study, different solvents acetone, ethanol and methanol were used to estimate chlorophyll and carotenoids through UV-VIS spectroscopy from different algal species viz. Anabaena sp., Nostoc sp., Merismopedia sp. and Microcystis sp., Methanol solvent contain the eminent potential for extraction of plant pigments. UV- VIS spectrum (300-800nm) gives the best detection spectrum to evaluate the efficiency of pigments with different solvents. Three methods were used to estimate the best efficiency for the extraction of chlorophyll and carotenoid pigments from algae cells. Results were recorded that Methanol > Ethanol >Acetone in the manner of extraction of plant pigments.