Question

DDT is an example of:
(A) Fungicide
(B) Herbicide
(C) Insecticide
(D) Rodenticide

Answer 1

Hint: DDT is a chemical compound and it stands for dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane. Its chemical formula is $ {C_{14}}{H_9}C{l_5} $. It is a colorless, crystalline solid at STP (Standard temperature and pressure conditions). Its molecular mass is $ 354.48gmo{l^{ - 1}} $. And DDT has wide application in the agricultural field. We will see the detailed effects of DDT and its applications in the solution.

Complete answer:
The chemical name of DDT is dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane and its molecular formula is $ {C_{14}}{H_9}C{l_5} $ . It is a colorless and crystalline solid. The solubility of this compound is low in water. The boiling point of DDT is $ 533K $ . When it reaches its boiling point, it decomposes.
DDT was first synthesised by an Austrian chemist, Othmar Zeidler in $ 1874 $ . Then, its insecticidal properties were discovered. In the latter half of world war second, it was used to prevent some insect-borne diseases such as malaria and typhus.
We should know that this compound is considered as “moderately hazardous” by the World Health Organization (WHO) and can cause adverse effects on health.
Hence, it is an example of an insecticide.
Therefore, the correct option is (C) Insecticide.

Note:
When exposed to high doses of DDT, it causes adverse effects on the health. It can cause symptoms like vomiting, shakiness, tremors and seizures. It can have bad effects on the liver and reproduction. It is considered as a human carcinogen. Therefore, it is considered as “moderately hazardous” by the World Health Organization (WHO).