JAMB - Chemistry (2018 - No. 79)
The alkanoic acid found in human sweat is
CH\(_3\)-COOH
CH\(_3\)—CH\(_2\)—COOH
H-COOH
CH\(_3\)
Explication
Bacteria of the genus Propionibacterium produce propionic acid (Propanoic Acid) as the end-product of their anaerobic metabolism. This class of bacteria is commonly found in the stomach of ruminants and the sweat glands of humans, and their activity is partially responsible for the odour of both Swiss cheese and sweat.