Question

Which acid is present in ant sting?
(A) Butanoic acid
(B) Acetic acid
(C) Methanoic acid
(D) Ethanoic acid

Answer 1

Hint: To answer this question, we should be aware of the origin of the acid and its presence in nature and some of its properties. When an ant bites it releases acid into the skin which causes irritation.

Complete Solution :
Let's look into each option:
- Option A is butanoic acid. Butanoic acid is also known as butyric acid which is an oily colourless liquid. The butyric acid name originates from the Greek language, which means the acid of butter as it was first discovered in rancid butter. It is found in butter, cheese. Therefore, this option is the wrong answer.
- Option B is acetic acid. Acetic acid is derived from the Latin word acetum, which means vinegar. Thus, option B is the wrong answer.
- Option C is methanoic acid. It is also commonly known as formic acid. This word is derived from the latin word "formica" referring to ant. The ant sting contains formic acid. The chemical formula of formic acid is HCOOH. When an ant bites the formic acid is injected into our body which makes us feel irritated and hurting. Therefore, option C is the correct answer.
- Option D is ethanoic acid. Ethanoic acid is the IUPAC name of acetic acid. Option B and D are the same. Therefore, Option D is the wrong answer.
So, the correct answer is “Option C”.

Note: Methanoic acid is the IUPAC name of formic acid. When an ant bites the formic acid is injected into our body which makes us feel irritated and hurt. In order to stop this irritation caustic soda is applied which will stop the irritation as the caustic soda is a base and formic acid is an acid. Therefore the neutralization of acid and base process takes place.