Question

The acid present in nettle leaves is:

• A. Acetic acid
• B. Methanoic acid
• C. Tartaric acid
• D. Citric acid

Hint:

Methanoic acid (HCOOH) is a simple carboxylic acid responsible for the burning effect in nettle and ant stings.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The question pertains to identifying the specific acid found in nettle leaves. Nettles are known for having a painful sting, caused by their chemical composition. The acid responsible for this effect is:

Methanoic acid (also known as formic acid).

Explanation:

1. Nettle plants have specialized stinging hairs called trichomes, which release the chemical upon contact.
2. The primary chemical component, causing the stinging sensation, is methanoic acid.
3. Methanoic acid is the simplest carboxylic acid, with the structure HCOOH.

This acid is also found in the stings and bites of many insects, including ants, hence it's commonly referred to as formic acid (from the Latin word 'formica' meaning ant).