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MHT CET · Chemistry · Alcohols Phenols and Ethers

Which of the following phenols is isolated from defensive secretion of grasshopper species?

  1. A 4 - Methylphenol
  2. B Benzene-1, 3- diol
  3. C 2, 5 - dichlorophenol
  4. D Phenol
Verified Solution

Answer & Solution

Correct Answer

(C) 2, 5 - dichlorophenol

Step-by-step Solution

Detailed explanation

The defensive froth emitted by the grasshopper Romalea microptera contains several odorous compounds (phenols, terpenes, benzoquinone), including a chlorinated aromatic compound, 2,5-dichlorophenol. This compound, which is repellent to ants and therefore defensively useful to the grasshopper, probably stems from herbicide or herbicide derivative ingested by the insect with its diet. Although there is precedent for the defensive employ by one species of chemical agents produced by another, no instance was known involving secondary utilization of a pesticide dispensed by man.