Which one among the following is present in the nettle leaf hairs that causes burning pain?

The correct answer is Methanoic acid.

Key Points

• Methanoic acid, also known as formic acid, is the chemical responsible for the burning pain caused by nettle leaf hairs.
• When the nettle's tiny hair-like structures, called trichomes, come into contact with skin, they inject methanoic acid along with histamine and other irritants.
• This injection leads to a stinging sensation, redness, and swelling.
• Formic acid is also found in the venom of ants and is used by these insects as a defense mechanism.
• The chemical structure of methanoic acid is HCOOH, making it the simplest carboxylic acid.

 Additional Information

• Ethanoic acid
  • Ethanoic acid is commonly known as acetic acid.
  • It is the main component of vinegar, giving it its sour taste and pungent smell.
  • The chemical formula for ethanoic acid is CH₃COOH.
• Benzoic acid
  • Benzoic acid is commonly used as a food preservative.
  • It is found naturally in many plants and serves as an intermediate in the biosynthesis of many secondary metabolites.
  • The chemical formula for benzoic acid is C₇H₆O₂.
• Acetic acid
  • Acetic acid is another name for ethanoic acid.
  • It is used in the production of chemical compounds and as a solvent in the manufacture of various products.