Question

Pick the odd one out.

(a) Molecular oxygen

(b) Steroids

(c) Oestrogens

(d) Lipids

I had been asked this question in a national level competition.

Origin of the question is Recent Advances topic in section Recent Advances in Enzyme Technology of Enzyme Technology

Answer 1

Right choice is (c) Oestrogens

The explanation is: Enzyme catalyzed reactions could be performed in organic solvents other than water, as it is not the ideal medium for the majority of organic reactions. Reactants such as molecular oxygen, steroids, lipids, etc., are more soluble in organic solvents than in water. Some products such as oestrogen may be labile in an aqueous environment. To overcome this, non-aqueous media which allows a much increased volumetric activity to be achieved may be used.