Question

Who was the discoverer of insecticidal properties of DDT?

• A. Dr Paul Muller
• B. Dr Swaminathan
• C. Dr N Borlaug
• D. Dr. Paul Miller

Hint:

Remember the distinction between the synthesis of DDT (Zeidler, 1874) and the discovery of its insecticidal action (Müller, 1939). The Nobel Prize was awarded to Müller in 1948 for saving millions of lives through vector control.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) is a synthetic organochlorine compound.
While it was first synthesized in 1874 by Austrian chemist Othmar Zeidler, its practical utility as an insecticide was discovered much later.
Detailed Explanation:
In 1939, Swiss chemist Paul Hermann Müller discovered that DDT was highly effective as a contact poison against various insects.
It was widely deployed during and after World War II to control disease vectors such as mosquitoes (carrying malaria) and lice (carrying typhus).
Due to its broad-spectrum efficacy, stability, and low cost, it became the first major synthetic organic insecticide.
For his discovery of the insecticidal properties of DDT, Paul Müller was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 19
Evaluating the other options:
- Dr. M.S. Swaminathan is recognized as the Father of the Green Revolution in India.
- Dr. Norman Borlaug is recognized as the Father of the Green Revolution globally.
- Dr. Paul Miller is an unrelated name.

Step 2: Final Answer:
The insecticidal properties of DDT were discovered by Dr. Paul Müller.