Soaps are biodegradable because their hydrocarbon chains are: MCQ with Answer and Explanation

Soaps are biodegradable because their hydrocarbon chains are:
A. Fluorinated
B. Branched
C. Aromatic
D. Linear and unbranched, can be broken down by bacteria
Answer: Option D
Solution (By JKSSB Mock Tests)
Natural soap molecules have straight-chain fatty acid salts that are easily broken down by microorganisms through β-oxidation. This makes them biodegradable. Some synthetic detergents with branched chains are non-biodegradable and cause pollution. Linearity allows enzymes to act. Aromatic and fluorinated compounds resist biodegradation.

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Practice More chemistry Questions

Question #1
The separation of two liquids with a boiling point difference of less than 25 K is best achieved by:
A. Steam distillation
B. Simple distillation
C. Fractional distillation
D. Vacuum distillation

Correct Answer: Option C


Explanation:
Fractional distillation is specifically designed to separate miscible liquids whose boiling points differ by less than 25 K. It uses a fractionating column which provides surfaces for repeated evaporation and condensation, enriching the vapor with the more volatile component before it reaches the condenser.

This question belongs to: Science chemistry
Question #2
The geometry and magnetic nature of the [Ni(CN)4]2- complex is:
A. Tetrahedral, paramagnetic
B. Square planar, paramagnetic
C. Tetrahedral, diamagnetic
D. Square planar, diamagnetic

Correct Answer: Option D


Explanation:
In [Ni(CN)4]2-, Ni is in the +2 oxidation state (d8 configuration). CN- is a strong field ligand, causing the pairing of d-electrons. This leaves one empty d-orbital, leading to dsp2 hybridization. The geometry is square planar. Since all electrons are paired, the complex is diamagnetic.

This question belongs to: Science chemistry
Question #3
The process of converting vegetable oils to solid fats (vanaspati) involves:
A. Hydrogenation
B. Esterification
C. Saponification
D. Fermentation

Correct Answer: Option A


Explanation:
Hydrogenation adds hydrogen to unsaturated vegetable oils in the presence of nickel catalyst at about 150°C, converting liquid oils (C=C bonds) to solid fats (vanaspati ghee) with higher melting points. Saponification makes soap. Esterification forms esters. Fermentation produces alcohol. Partial hydrogenation can produce trans fats, which are harmful. Complete hydrogenation yields saturated fats.

This question belongs to: Science chemistry