GS PrelimsScience and TechnologyGeneral Science1999

When ants bite, they inject

glacial acetic acid

methanol

formic acid

stearic acid

Correct Answer: Option C

Explanation

1. The question asks what chemical substance ants inject when they bite (or more accurately, sting for many species). 2. Ant stings, particularly from species like red ants, are known to contain formic acid (methanoic acid). 3. Formic acid is the simplest carboxylic acid (HCOOH) and causes irritation and pain upon injection. 4. (A) Glacial acetic acid is concentrated acetic acid (vinegar acid). 5. (B) Methanol is wood alcohol. 6. (D) Stearic acid is a saturated fatty acid.

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