Question

Given below are two statements, one is labelled as Assertion (A) and other one labelled as Reason (R).
Assertion (A): Isinglass is prepared from swim bladder.
Reason (R): It is a form of collagen used mainly for the clarification or fining of some beer and wine.
In light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below.

• A. Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
• B. Both (A) and (R) are true but (R) is NOT the correct explanation of (A).
• C. (A) is true but (R) is false.
• D. (A) is false but (R) is true.

Hint:

Isinglass is distinct from fish glue; while both come from fish parts, isinglass is the purest form of collagen and is specifically used in the beverage industry, whereas fish glue is used as an adhesive.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Isinglass is a high-value by-product of the fishing industry. It is a substance obtained from the dried swim bladders (air bladders) of fish, particularly sturgeon, cod, and catfish. Chemically, it consists almost entirely of collagen, a fibrous structural protein.
Detailed Explanation:
Analysis of Assertion (A): The air bladder or swim bladder of certain fish is rich in collagenous fibers. Once extracted, cleaned, and dried, this material becomes isinglass. Therefore, Assertion (A) is a factually correct statement about the origin of the product.

Analysis of Reason (R): Isinglass has unique properties as a "fining agent." When added to liquids like beer or wine, the collagen molecules carry a positive charge. These molecules attract and bind with negatively charged particles such as yeast cells and tannins that cause cloudiness (turbidity). The resulting large aggregates settle to the bottom of the container, leaving the liquid clear. This process is known as clarification or fining.

Evaluating the Relationship: The reason (R) correctly identifies what isinglass is (collagen) and describes its primary industrial use (clarification). Since its industrial value and functional identity are derived from its collagenous nature extracted from the swim bladder, (R) provides the functional context and explanation for why we identify and prepare isinglass from that specific anatomical part.

Step 2: Final Answer:
Both statements are true, and the reason accurately explains the nature and utility of the assertion.