Match List I with List II

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

A-I, B-III, C-II, D-IV

The correct answer is Option (2) → A-I, B-III, C-II, D-IV.

Let us break down each substance in List I and match it to the correct property from List II, followed by detailed explanations for each match.

A. Methyl alcohol (Methanol) → I. Highly poisonous

Methanol (CH₃OH), also known as wood alcohol, is a highly poisonous substance. It is a colorless liquid that is used in industrial applications such as antifreeze, solvents, and fuel.

Methanol is toxic if ingested, inhaled, or even absorbed through the skin. Inside the human body, methanol is metabolized into formaldehyde and formic acid, which are toxic to the central nervous system.

Symptoms of methanol poisoning include headache, dizziness, nausea, and, in severe cases, it can cause blindness or even death.

Thus, methyl alcohol is highly poisonous. 

B. Ethyl alcohol (Ethanol) → III. Highly soluble in water

Ethanol (C₂H₅OH) is the type of alcohol found in alcoholic beverages. It is widely used as a solvent, disinfectant, and in the production of alcoholic drinks.

Ethanol is highly soluble in water because it can form hydrogen bonds with water molecules due to the presence of its hydroxyl (-OH) group.

Ethanol-water mixtures are miscible in all proportions, meaning that ethanol dissolves completely in water.

Thus, ethyl alcohol is highly soluble in water. 

C. Phenol → II. Carbolic acid

Phenol (C₆H₅OH) is also known as carbolic acid. It is a weak acid and was one of the first antiseptics used in surgery, introduced by Joseph Lister in the 19th century.

Phenol has antiseptic properties but is also caustic, meaning it can cause burns on contact with skin.

It is widely used in the production of plastics, resins, and pharmaceuticals.

Phenol is toxic if ingested or inhaled in large amounts.

Thus, phenol is also known as carbolic acid. 

D. Picric acid → IV. Turns blue litmus red

Picric acid (2,4,6-trinitrophenol) is a yellow crystalline solid that is both an explosive compound and a strong acid. Like other acids, picric acid can turn blue litmus paper red, which is a characteristic of acidic substances.

Historically, picric acid was used in explosives, but due to its instability and highly reactive nature, its usage has declined. It is also used in biological staining and as an antiseptic.

Picric acid is a strong acid due to the presence of electron-withdrawing nitro groups attached to the benzene ring, which enhances its acidic properties.

Thus, picric acid is an acid that turns blue litmus red. 

Thus, the correct answer is:  A-I, B-III, C-II, D-IV.