DDT Full Form

What is the Full Form of DDT?

The full Form of DDT is Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane. It is an insecticide used in agriculture that is banned in many countries such as China, but some countries like India still manufacture and are the largest consumer of DDT.

History of DDT

• DDT was developed in the year 1874 by the Austrian chemist Othmar Zeidler.

• Initially, it was used to fight against malaria, typhus, and other insect-borne human diseases.

• DDT was also used as insect control in homes, gardens, and crops.

• DDT is commonly used as a spray.

Structure of DDT and its Operation

• The molecular formula for DDT is C_{14}H_{9}Cl_{5}

• DDT is formed when chloral (CCl_{3}CHO) reacts with chlorobenzene(C_{6}H_{5}Cl) in the presence of sulphuric acid (H_{2}SO_{4}) as a catalyst to form it naturally.

• DDT is an oily liquid soluble in organic solvents but not in water.

How DDT Works?

• DDT disrupts the function of an insect’s nervous system.

• DDT binds the insect cells with receptors and interferes in the transmission of nerve impulses which takes the ability of an insect to control its movement and leads to death.

• When DDT is sprayed on plants, the insect living on crops are exposed to it, which damages the nerves of insect and hence lead to death.

Effect of DDT on Human Health

DDT is a very toxic and harmful chemical to human health, and it can cause several diseases, such as:

• Diabetes

• Liver cancer

• Breast cancer

• Tumour