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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements is not true regarding lactic acid in organic chemistry reactions?
A
Lactic acid can be produced by fermentation.
B
Lactic acid is a chiral molecule.
C
Lactic acid can undergo esterification reactions.
D
Lactic acid is a strong acid.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the structure of lactic acid: Lactic acid is a carboxylic acid with the formula C₃H₆O₃. It contains a hydroxyl group (-OH) and a carboxyl group (-COOH) on adjacent carbon atoms.
Understand the concept of chirality: A molecule is chiral if it has a carbon atom bonded to four different groups, making it non-superimposable on its mirror image. Lactic acid has a chiral center at the second carbon atom, making it a chiral molecule.
Review the process of fermentation: Lactic acid can be produced by the fermentation of sugars by certain bacteria, which is a common method in both food production and biological systems.
Examine esterification reactions: Lactic acid can react with alcohols in the presence of an acid catalyst to form esters, a process known as esterification.
Evaluate the acidity of lactic acid: Lactic acid is a weak acid, not a strong acid. Strong acids completely dissociate in water, while weak acids like lactic acid only partially dissociate.