Question

Which of the statements regarding waxes is FALSE? (A) \(\quad\) Waxes generally have melting points above room temperature. (B) \(\quad\) Waxes are produced only in plants and insects and therefore must be consumed by humans. (C) \(\quad\) Waxes protect against dehydration and parasites. (D) \(\quad\) Waxes are esters of long-chain fatty acids and long-chain alcohols.

Short answer

Statement B is false.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the given statements

Read through each of the given statements about waxes carefully. Identify key characteristics being discussed: melting points, sources, functions, and chemical structure.

Analyze Statement A

Statement A claims that waxes generally have melting points above room temperature. This is true, as waxes usually have melting points higher than 25°C.

Analyze Statement B

Statement B claims that waxes are only produced in plants and insects and must be consumed by humans. Check if this statement is entirely accurate.

Analyze Statement C

Statement C claims that waxes protect against dehydration and parasites. This is accurate as waxes form a protective layer in plants and insects.

Analyze Statement D

Statement D claims that waxes are esters of long-chain fatty acids and long-chain alcohols. This is correct as it is the chemical structure of waxes.

Identify the false statement

Based on the analysis, identify the statement that does not fully align with known information about waxes.

Key concepts

waxes

Waxes are fascinating substances often found in nature. They are diverse in their application and function. Many organisms, from plants to insects, rely on waxes for protection and other necessary functions. This broad group of compounds has specific characteristics and functions that are crucial for various biological processes.

fatty acids

Fatty acids play a key role in the structure and function of waxes. They are long-chain hydrocarbons with a carboxylic acid group at one end. Fatty acids come in two types: saturated and unsaturated.

- Saturated fatty acids have no double bonds between carbon atoms.
- Unsaturated fatty acids have one or more double bonds.

These properties influence the physical characteristics of waxes, like melting points and structure.

chemical structure of waxes

The chemical structure of waxes is critical to their function. Waxes are esters, formed from a reaction between long-chain fatty acids and long-chain alcohols. This combination makes them hydrophobic, meaning they repel water. Hydrophobicity is essential for waxes to act as protective barriers.
Waxes' chemical structure endows them with a high melting point. This is why they are solid at room temperature and stable over a range of environmental conditions. This property is especially beneficial for the protective role waxes play in plants and insects.

functions of waxes

Waxes serve several important functions in nature and beyond.

- Protection: They provide a barrier against water loss in plants, preventing dehydration. They also shield insects against parasites and physical damage.
- Energy Storage: In some organisms, waxes act as a form of energy storage.
- Manufacture: Humans use waxes in various products, including cosmetics, food coatings, and candles.

Understanding these functions helps us appreciate the versatility and importance of waxes in both natural and industrial contexts.