The Question is from neet-chemistry principles-related-to-practical-chemistry , and it was created by the author THIRUPATHI REDDY

Question

Structurally a biodegradable detergent should contain a:

THIRUPATHI REDDY · Accepted Answer

## CORE INFORMATION
✓ **Answer**: A
## CONCEPT FRAMEWORK
	**Primary Concept**: Biodegradability and Molecular Structure
	**Related Topics**: Organic Chemistry, Detergents, Environmental Chemistry
	**Prerequisites**: Basic understanding of organic molecule structures, particularly alkyl chains and their impact on biodegradability.
## SOLUTION PATHWAY
**Given Information**:
	* Question asks about the structural feature of a biodegradable detergent.
	* Options are different types of alkyl chains.
**Method & Steps**:
	1. **Recall**: Recall the principle that linear (normal) alkyl chains are more easily broken down by microorganisms compared to branched chains, cyclic chains, or those with bulky side groups.
		Reasoning: The linear structure allows enzymes to more readily access and break the carbon-carbon bonds. Branching hinders enzymatic action.
		Formula/Rule: N/A
	2. **Apply**: Apply this understanding to select the option that is most easily biodegradable.
		Working: Normal alkyl chains are linear and thus biodegradable. Branched, hexyl and cyclohexyl are not as easily biodegradable.
		Key Point: Biodegradability is a crucial factor in detergent design to minimize environmental impact.
	3. **Final step**: Choose the correct option.
		Result: Normal alkyl chain.
		Verification: This is a standard fact in organic chemistry and detergent design.
 ## OPTION ANALYSIS
[A] ✓: Normal alkyl chains are more easily biodegradable due to their linear structure, making them accessible to enzymes for breakdown.
[B] :x: Branched alkyl chains are more resistant to biodegradation because the branching interferes with enzymatic action.
[C] :x: A hexyl side chain specifically does not indicate the main chain structure and can be branched or cyclic. Its size does not guarantee biodegradability. 
[D] :x: Cyclohexyl side chains are cyclic and more difficult for microorganisms to break down, hindering biodegradability.
 ## LEARNING AIDS
	**Common Mistakes**:
		1. Confusing the terms 'normal', 'branched', 'cyclic': Understanding the difference in structure is key.
		2. Assuming any carbon chain is biodegradable: Linear chains are more biodegradable than branched or cyclic ones.
	**Quick Tips**:
		1. Remember 'linear = biodegradable'.
		2. Visualize the molecular structure to understand how enzymes might act on it.

THIRUPATHI REDDY · Answer

The correct Option is "Normal alkyl chain"

THIRUPATHI REDDY · Answer

Branched alkyl chain

THIRUPATHI REDDY · Answer

Hexyl side chain

THIRUPATHI REDDY · Answer

Cyclohexyl side chain

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