Previous Year Question
Which of the following organic compounds coagulates protoplasm in the human body?
A.
Methanol
B.
Methanoic Acid
C.
Propanone
D.
Ethanol
Correct Answer: A
Detailed Solution
Methanol is a highly poisonous alcohol. According to NCERT, after entering the body, methanol is oxidised in the liver to methanal (formaldehyde).
Methanal reacts rapidly with cellular components and causes coagulation of the protoplasm. This is one of the reasons why methanol is highly toxic.
Methanol can also particularly affect the optic nerve, causing blindness, and larger quantities can be fatal.
Remember:
Methanol → oxidation in body → Methanal → reaction with cellular components → Protoplasm coagulation