Question

Which of these can be used as moth repellent
A. Benzene hexachloride
B. Benzal chloride
C. Hexachloroethane
D. Tetrachloroethane

Answer 1

Hint: Moth repellent is made of two words- moth refers to the insects with wings, for example butterfly and repellent means to prevent or deter. Thus, moth repellent are certain chemicals that prevent the growth or deter insects from approaching. Generally, moth growth is seen on items made of natural material. For example, clothes made of silk.

Complete step-by-step answer:There are different kinds of moth repellent from natural to synthetic designed for specific purposes. Many smells of aromatic herbs prevent moths. This includes the smell of mint, cloves, etc. Cedar is one of the known natural moth repellents.
Hexachloroethane is a widely used synthetic moth repellent. Hexachloroethane has chemical formula \[{(CC{l_3})_2}\]. It is a solid having white colour and has camphor like appearance and odour. The balls of hexachloroethane are kept in clothes to improve shelf life by preventing growth of moths.

Option ‘C ’ is correct

Additional Information: Hexachloroethane is used as a smoke agent. It reacts with zinc oxide to form zinc chloride which produces smoke grenades or called HC smoke.

Note: Hexachloroethane is not only harmful for the moth but has a health impact on humans. The smoke produced by it is toxic and has a serious impact on the nervous system of human beings. Health problems like vomiting and loss of appetite are observed commonly when exposed to a concentration of \[300\] ppm or above. Hexachloroethane has a toxic effect if absorbed through skin.