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10 grade science

Which acid is present in an ant sting?A. Butanoic Acid B. Acetic AcidC. Methanoic AcidD. Ethanoic Acid

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1 Year agoGrade
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1 Answer

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1 Year ago

The acid present in an ant sting is Methanoic Acid (option C).

Explanation:
Ant stings contain formic acid, which is the common name for methanoic acid. This acid causes the burning sensation and irritation when an ant stings. The chemical formula for methanoic acid is HCOOH. It is the simplest carboxylic acid and is found in nature in ants, where it is used as a defense mechanism.

Let's briefly discuss the other options:

Butanoic Acid (Option A): Also known as butyric acid, it is found in butter and is responsible for its rancid smell but is not related to ant stings.

Acetic Acid (Option B): Commonly found in vinegar, it has a sharp smell but is not present in ant stings.

Ethanoic Acid (Option D): This is just another name for acetic acid (CH3COOH).

Thus, the correct answer is Methanoic Acid (C).