Chapter 8, Problem 1P

Methoxychlor is an insecticide that was intended to take DDT’s place because it is not as soluble in fatty tissues and is more readily biodegradable. It, too, can accumulate in the environment, however, so its use was also banned—in 2002 in the European Union and in 2003 in the United States. Why is methoxychlor less soluble in fatty tissues than DDT?

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The reason for methoxychlor is less soluble in fatty tissues than DDT has to be given.

Concept Introduction:

Compounds in which one or more hydrogen atoms are replaced by halogen atoms are called alkyl halides.

These alkyl halides usually undergo substitution or addition reactions.

The electronegative atom is replaced by another atoms or group are referred as substitution reactions.

The electronegative atom is eliminated along with a hydrogen from adjacent carbon is called elimination reactions.

Answer to Problem 1P

The methoxychlor can form hydrogen bonds with water.  Thus it is less soluble in fatty tissues.

Explanation of Solution

Methoxychlor is a chemical compound.  It has methoxy group instead of chlorine on the benzene ring in DDT (dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane). These methoxy groups can form hydrogen bonds with water.  Thus makes it more soluble in water than fatty tissues.

Conclusion

The reason for methoxychlor is less soluble in fatty tissues than DDT was given.