Question

Name the acid present in an ant sting and give its chemical formula. Also give the common method to get relief from the discomfort caused by the ant sting.

Answer 1

Hint: When an ant bites, it injects the acidic liquid into the skin, which causes a burning sensation. The effect of the sting can be neutralised by rubbing any available basic salt on it.

Complete answer:
- The acid which ants produce is called methanoic acid or formic acid. The chemical formula of formic acid is HCOOH.
- Strong solutions of formic acid are corrosive. In case of contact, it can cause burns to any part of the body. Ingestion of formic acid can result in burns to the mouth, throat and stomach, drooling, difficulty swallowing and vomiting.
- Formic acid is an anti-injects acid, and causes a burning sensation.
 - To get relief from the discomfort caused by ant sting, one should apply turmeric or a mild base such as baking soda on it.

Additional information:
A person who gets stung by a fire ant will feel a sharp pain and burning. Someone who steps on a fire ant mound will get a lot of stings at once because the ants have been disturbed where they all live together. Each sting will turn into an itchy white blister over the next day.

Note:
Formic acid is a weak acid that partially dissociates in aqueous solution. It occurs naturally in bee and ant stings. It is a corrosive acid and has toxic effects on the human body.