The first organic acid to be produced industrially is
1. aspartic acid
2. gibberellic acid
3. acetic acid
4. lactic acid

Detailed Explanation:

Correct Answer: 3. Acetic acid

Introduction to Acetic Acid:

The production of organic acids has played a pivotal role in various industrial processes, particularly in the chemical and food industries. Acetic acid, a simple carboxylic acid, holds the distinction of being the first organic acid produced on an industrial scale.

Industrial Production of Acetic Acid:

Acetic acid, commonly known as vinegar in its diluted form, is a key chemical in both food and industrial applications. The first industrial production of acetic acid was achieved through the fermentation of ethanol, a process that dates back centuries but became industrialized in the 19th century. Initially, it was produced by bacterial fermentation, with Acetobacter species converting ethanol to acetic acid.

Over time, as technology advanced, synthetic methods of production were developed, including the carbonylation of methanol, known as the Monsanto process, which became the dominant method for producing acetic acid in the 20th century.

Historical Significance:

The production of acetic acid was one of the earliest industrial fermentation processes, establishing a foundation for the growth of biotechnology and fermentation industries. Acetic acid has wide-ranging applications, including its use as a solvent, in the manufacture of plastics (e.g., acetate fibers), and, of course, as a food preservative and flavoring agent.

Comparison with Other Organic Acids:

• Aspartic Acid (Option 1):

  • While aspartic acid is an important amino acid and a precursor in the biosynthesis of other amino acids, it was not the first organic acid to be produced industrially. Its industrial production became more prominent in the late 20th century, especially in the production of aspartame (an artificial sweetener).

• Gibberellic Acid (Option 2):

  • Gibberellic acid is a plant hormone used in agriculture to promote growth and increase crop yield. Although it has industrial applications, it was not the first organic acid to be produced. Its discovery and industrial use came after acetic acid.

• Lactic Acid (Option 4):

  • Lactic acid is another important organic acid, often produced by microbial fermentation. While it has been industrially produced for many years, it did not precede acetic acid as the first organic acid produced industrially. Lactic acid plays a significant role in the food industry (e.g., in the production of yogurt) and in the manufacture of biodegradable plastics like PLA (polylactic acid).

Conclusion:

Among the organic acids listed, acetic acid is historically significant as the first organic acid to be produced industrially. Its versatile uses in the food industry, chemical manufacturing, and other sectors have made it one of the most important and widely produced organic acids today.