Question

The salt which produces salting out effect during extraction of proteins is?

(a) NH4 SO4

(b) (NH4)2 SO4

(c) (NH4)3 SO4

(d) NaCl

This question was addressed to me during an internship interview.

I would like to ask this question from Working with Proteins in division Amino Acids, Peptides and Proteins of Biochemistry

Answer 1

Right option is (b) (NH4)2 SO4

Easiest explanation: (NH4)2 SO4 is added in the right amount can selectively precipitate some proteins, while others remain in the solution.  (NH4)2 SO4 is often used for this purpose because of its high solubility in water.