Question

Bordeaux mixture is

• A. Organochlorine
• B. Antibiotic
• C. Organophosphate
• D. Inorganic fungicide

Hint:

The standard formula for Bordeaux mixture is 1:1:100 (1 kg Copper Sulfate : 1 kg Lime : 100 liters Water). Use a plastic or wooden vessel, never metal!

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Bordeaux mixture is one of the most famous and oldest plant protection chemicals. It was accidentally discovered by Millardet in Bordeaux, France, in 1882 while looking for a way to prevent theft of grapes. It was found to be highly effective against downy mildew.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Bordeaux mixture is prepared by mixing copper sulfate (\(CuSO_4 \cdot 5H_2O\)) with lime (\(Ca(OH)_2\)) in water. Since its active ingredients are minerals (Copper and Calcium) and it does not contain synthetic carbon chains, it is classified as an inorganic fungicide.
Looking at other categories:
- Organochlorines (Option 1): Synthetic organic pesticides like DDT or Endosulfan containing chlorine.
- Antibiotics (Option 2): Organic compounds produced by microorganisms, like Streptomycin.
- Organophosphates (Option 3): Synthetic organic insecticides containing phosphorus, like Malathion.
Because Bordeaux mixture is a mineral-based copper compound, Option 4 is the only correct classification. It works by slowly releasing copper ions, which are toxic to fungal spores.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Bordeaux mixture is a classical inorganic fungicide composed of copper sulfate and lime.