What is the full form of DDT?

The full form of DDT is Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane. DDT is a pesticide used in agriculture. DDT was outlawed in the United States in 1972, although several countries continue to use the substance. DDT was once frequently applied to prevent lice. Outside of the United States, it controls mosquitoes that spread malaria. DDT and its related compounds persist in the environment and animal tissues for a very long time.

History of DDT

• DDT was created for the first time in 1874, and during World War II it was utilised to treat both soldiers and civilians for typhus and malaria.
• A total of 386 million pounds of DDT were produced globally in 1970.
• In 1959, it was primarily applied as a spray in the United States.
• In the early 1970s, concerns were raised regarding the negative effects of DDT on the environment and living beings.
• States of America The Agency for Environmental Protection outlawed DDT usage in the United States in 1973.

Structure of DDT and its Operation

• The DDT chemical formula is C14H9Cl. It is very hydrophobic, insoluble in water, and soluble in the majority of organic solvents like fats and oils.
• It is created spontaneously when chlorobenzene (C6H5Cl) and chloral (CCl3CHO) react with the help of a sulphuric acid catalyst (H2SO4).
• Insects that feed on the crops are exposed to DDT if the plants are treated with it. The bug’s nerves are harmed, which eventually results in death.

Effect of DDT

DDT is a hazardous material that contributes to various diseases in humans such as:

• Breast cancer
• Liver cancer
• Diabetes
• Cancer and tumour
• DDT is a highly toxic and harmful chemical for many species, including mammals, birds, fish, etc.
• In some bird species, the thinning of eggshells and low reproductive rate are responsible for creating egg breakage, and the embryo dies.