When bitten by ant, irritation cause due to presence of:

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is (2):

When an ant bites, it injects a chemical substance into the skin that causes the characteristic stinging and irritating sensation. This substance is primarily formic acid, which has the chemical formula HCOOH. Formic acid, also known as methanoic acid, is the simplest carboxylic acid and is naturally produced by many ant species as a defense mechanism. Its acidic nature irritates nerve endings in the skin, leading to pain, redness, and swelling. The body's reaction to this acid is what causes the discomfort experienced after an ant bite. To alleviate this irritation, a mild base like baking soda can be applied, as it neutralizes the acid.

The incorrect option is (1): NaOH

NaOH, or sodium hydroxide, is a strong base. While it would neutralize an acid, it is not the substance injected by an ant. Introducing a strong base like NaOH to the skin could cause severe chemical burns and is not a natural component of ant venom.

The incorrect option is (3): HCl

HCl, or hydrochloric acid, is a strong mineral acid. While it is highly acidic and would cause irritation, it is not the acid found in ant venom. Ant venom specifically contains formic acid, which is an organic acid.

The incorrect option is (4): None

This option is incorrect because there is a specific chemical substance, formic acid, that ants inject and is responsible for the irritation. Therefore, stating "None" as the cause would be inaccurate.