ACT. 9 & 10 Q2 &3 ORGMED LAB FINALS

Which of the following best describes the mechanism of action of benzoic acid as an antimicrobial agent?

• It disrupts the integrity of the bacterial cell wall.

• It inhibits the synthesis of nucleic acids.

• It alters the pH of the microbial environment, leading to cell death.

• It acts as a competitive inhibitor of key metabolic enzymes.

What is the primary metabolic pathway for salicylic acid in humans?

• Glucuronidation

• Sulfation

• Glycine conjugation

• Methylation

Which of the following statements about the solubility of benzoic acid is true?

• It is more soluble in cold water than in hot water.

• Its solubility increases significantly in alkaline solutions.

• It is completely insoluble in organic solvents.

• Its solubility decreases with increasing temperature.

What is the significance of the pKa value of benzoic acid (approximately 4.2) in food preservation?

• It indicates that benzoic acid is ineffective at low pH.

• It suggests that benzoic acid is a weak acid and less effective as a preservative.

• It allows benzoic acid to remain undissociated in acidic conditions, enhancing its antimicrobial activity.

• It means benzoic acid is more effective in alkaline conditions.

Which of the following tests can differentiate between salicylic acid and acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin)?

• Ferric chloride test

• Hydrolysis test

• Titration with sodium hydroxide

• UV-Vis spectroscopy

What is the primary reason for the use of sodium benzoate instead of benzoic acid in food preservation?

• Sodium benzoate is less toxic.

• Sodium benzoate is more effective at higher pH levels.

• Sodium benzoate has a stronger antimicrobial effect.

• Sodium benzoate is more stable at high temperatures.

Which of the following is a potential consequence of excessive salicylic acid use in topical formulations?

• Increased skin hydration

• Systemic absorption leading to salicylate toxicity

• Enhanced keratinization

• Decreased skin sensitivity

What is the primary mechanism by which salicylic acid promotes exfoliation?

• Inhibition of collagen synthesis

• Disruption of desmosomal connections between keratinocytes

• Stimulation of sebaceous gland activity

• Enhancement of blood flow to the skin

Which of the following statements about the toxicity of benzoic acid is correct?

• It is completely non-toxic at all concentrations.

• It can cause respiratory distress in sensitive individuals.

• It is only toxic when ingested in large quantities.

• It has no known side effects when used topically.

What is the primary reason for the use of salicylic acid in the treatment of psoriasis?

• Its ability to inhibit bacterial growth

• Its keratolytic properties, promoting exfoliation

• Its anti-inflammatory effects

• Its ability to enhance skin hydration