Mix thoroughly, and incline the test tube so as to moisten the wall. Then add 0.5-1.0 g of anhydrous aluminum chloride so that some of the powder strikes the side of the test tube. Note the color of the powder on the side, as well as the solution. The colors produced by the reaction of aromatic compounds with chloroform and aluminum chloride are quite characteristic. Aliphatic compounds, which are insoluble in sulfuric acid, give no color or only a very light yellow.
Typical colors produced are the following.
Positive Test Formation of a colored carbocation is a positive test.