Question

Bee sting causes, severe pain and burning sensation due to the presence of:
1. Acetic acid
2. Sulfuric acid
3. Citric acid
4. Methanoic acid

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 4 : Methanoic acid

The correct answer is Methanoic acid.

• Bee sting venom contains proteins that affect skin cells and the immune system, causing pain and swelling around the sting area.
• Histamine makes up 0.9% of the sting and causes itching and pain at the site of the sting.
• The acids present, which include formic, hydrochloric and orthophosphoric acids are also present in the sting.
• Formic acid is also known as Methanoic acid.
• If a person is allergic, the bee sting will cause the immune system to produce a type of antibody called immunoglobulin E (IgE).
• Usually, IgE protects the body from dangerous substances, such as viruses and parasites.
• However, in response to a sting, the body produces IgE that then causes inappropriate immune responses, such as hives, swelling, and respiratory problems the next time a person is stung.