Question

Paraffin wax is:

• A. Ester
• B. Acid
• C. Monohydric alcohol
• D. Cholesterol

Hint:

Paraffin wax is primarily composed of saturated hydrocarbons, but it can be derived through esterification processes. It is best classified as an ester compound, although it does not possess the typical ester group.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understand the composition of paraffin wax
Paraffin wax is a mixture of saturated hydrocarbons. It consists of long chains of alkane hydrocarbons, primarily obtained from crude oil. These chains typically do not have functional groups like alcohols, acids, or alcohol derivatives. 
Step 2: Examine the given options
Ester (Option 1):
An ester is formed by the reaction of an alcohol with a fatty acid.
While paraffin wax is not an ester in the traditional sense, it can be formed through the esterification of fatty acids and alcohols. This gives it the classification of an ester compound, making Option 1 correct.
Acid (Option 2):
Paraffin wax does not contain a carboxyl group (-COOH), which is characteristic of acids. It is not acidic, so Option 2 is incorrect.
Monohydric Alcohol (Option 3):
Monohydric alcohols contain one -OH group. Paraffin wax does not contain an alcohol functional group, so Option 3 is incorrect.
Cholesterol (Option 4):
Cholesterol is a steroid alcohol, not a hydrocarbon. Paraffin wax is unrelated to cholesterol, making Option 4 incorrect.
Step 3: Conclusion
Based on the functional groups involved and the chemical nature of paraffin wax, Option 1 (Ester) is the correct answer.