Question

Which among the following statements about terpenes is NOT true?

• A. Terpenes occur in essential oils
• B. Terpenes include vitamins A, E, and K
• C. Terpenes consist of isoprene units
• D. Terpenes are saturated hydrocarbons

Hint:

Terpenes are unsaturated hydrocarbons made of isoprene units and are often found in essential oils. They play important roles in plant defense and fragrance.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding Terpenes.
Terpenes are a large and diverse class of naturally occurring organic compounds produced by plants, particularly conifers, and are often found in essential oils. Terpenes are composed of isoprene units (C\(_5\)H\(_8\)) and are typically unsaturated hydrocarbons, meaning they contain double bonds.

Step 2: Analyzing the Options.
(A) Terpenes occur in essential oils: Correct. Terpenes are a major component of essential oils.
(B) Terpenes include vitamins A, E, and K: Correct. Terpenes are precursors to several vitamins, including vitamin A.
(C) Terpenes consist of isoprene units: Correct. Terpenes are made up of isoprene units (C\(_5\)H\(_8\)), which is a key characteristic of their structure.
(D) Terpenes are saturated hydrocarbons: Incorrect. Terpenes are typically unsaturated hydrocarbons, as they contain carbon-carbon double bonds.

Step 3: Conclusion.
The statement (D) is not true, as terpenes are unsaturated hydrocarbons, not saturated.