Automated Determination of Ascorbic Acid in Multivitamin Preparations

A specific colorimetric method for the determination of ascorbic acid in multivitamin preparations has been automated. The method is based on the coupling reaction of diazotized 4-methoxy-2-nitroaniline with ascorbic acid. A bathochromic shift in the chromophore is effected by the addition of alkali. The stable blue color developed is measured at 570 μ. Application of the automated procedure for the determination of ascorbic acid in multivitamin and mineral preparations is described.