Question

Select the correct option if \(T\) is true and \(F\) is false. (a) \(\mathrm{HCOOH} \rightarrow\) Red Ants (b) \(\mathrm{CH}_{3} \mathrm{COOH} \rightarrow\) Vinegar (c) \(\mathrm{CH}_{3}-\mathrm{CH}_{2}-\mathrm{CH}_{2}-\mathrm{COOH} \rightarrow\) Rancid butter (d) Ester of glycerol \(\rightarrow\) Natural fat (A) \(\mathrm{T} \mathrm{T} \mathrm{T} \mathrm{F}\) (B) T FT F (C) T F T T (D) \(\mathrm{T} \mathrm{T} \mathrm{T} \mathrm{T}\)

Short answer

(D) \(T T T T\)

Step-by-step solution

Analyzing statement (a)

HCOOH is the formula for formic acid, which is indeed a component of the venom produced by red ants. So, this statement is True (T).

Analyzing statement (b)

CH3COOH is the formula for acetic acid, which is the main component of vinegar, giving it its characteristic taste and smell. Therefore, this statement is also True (T).

Analyzing statement (c)

CH3-CH2-CH2-COOH is the formula for butyric acid. Rancid butter is known to contain butyric acid, responsible for its strong, unpleasant smell. Thus, this statement is True (T) as well.

Analyzing statement (d)

Esters of glycerol are indeed natural fats, as they are derived from the reaction between glycerol and fatty acids. Specifically, they are called triglycerides. So, this statement is True (T) too. All of the statements are true. Therefore, the correct option is: (D) 𝑇𝑇𝑇𝑇

Key concepts

Formic Acid

Formic acid, known scientifically as \( \text{HCOOH} \), is the simplest carboxylic acid. It famously got its name from the Latin word 'formica,' which means ant. This is because formic acid is found in the venom of red ants and is part of their defense mechanism. When ants feel threatened, they release this acid as a chemical weapon. Apart from its natural occurrence in ants, formic acid also finds practical applications.

• Industrial Uses: It is used as a preservative and antibacterial agent in livestock feed and hay.
• Textile Industry: Formic acid plays a role in dyeing and finishing textiles.
• Leather Production: It is involved in tanning leather, helping to soften the hides.

Interestingly, formic acid is also naturally present in the stings and bites of bees and in some plants like stinging nettles.

Acetic Acid

Acetic acid, with the chemical formula \( \text{CH}_3\text{COOH} \), is perhaps most well-known as the principal component of vinegar, aside from water. This organic compound is responsible for the sour taste and pungent smell of vinegar, which contains about 4% to 8% acetic acid by volume.

• Culinary Use: Vinegar is widely used in cooking, salad dressings, and pickling.
• Cleaning Agent: Due to its acidic nature, vinegar acts as an effective household cleaner.
• Biochemical Importance: Acetic acid is an essential chemical in the production of various commercial plastics, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), used in bottles and synthetic fibers.

Acetic acid can also be produced industrially by aerobic fermentation and anaerobic fermentation processes, highlighting its versatility.

Butyric Acid

Butyric acid, chemically identified by \( \text{C}_4\text{H}_8\text{O}_2 \), is well-known for its presence in rancid butter, offering a strong, unpleasant aroma that most can recognize instantly. This short-chain fatty acid is also naturally found in certain animal fats and plant oils.

• Role in Dairy Products: Butyric acid is produced during the anaerobic fermentation process, especially in products like butter and cheese.
• Health Benefits: Despite its smell, butyric acid has health-promoting effects, contributing to improved gut health and efficient nutrient absorption.
• Production of Other Compounds: It serves as an intermediate in the production of various esters used in flavoring and perfume manufacturing.

Despite its negative association with rancidity, butyric acid plays several vital roles in food science and health.

Esters of Glycerol

Esters of glycerol, mainly in the form of triglycerides, are the fats we find naturally in our bodies and the foods we eat. These compounds are formed through the esterification process where glycerol, a simple triol compound, reacts with fatty acids. Triglycerides are an essential part of the human diet and biological processes.

• Energy Storage: Triglycerides are a major form of energy storage for living organisms, providing more than double the energy per gram compared to carbohydrates.
• Structural Role: They play a critical role in forming cell membranes, providing cells with structural integrity and fluidity.
• Insulation and Protection: Fats serve as insulating materials against temperature changes and mechanical protection for organs.

In industries, esters of glycerol are major components in the production of soaps, cosmetics, and lubricants, emphasizing their widespread utility.