Which of the following is the primary purpose of fermentation in organic chemistry?

• A. To break down $\mathrm{lipids}$ into $\mathrm{fatty} \mathrm{acids}$
• B. To synthesize $\mathrm{complex} \mathrm{carbohydrates}$
• C. To produce $\mathrm{amino} \mathrm{acids}$ from $\mathrm{proteins}$
• D. To convert $\mathrm{sugars}$ into $\mathrm{alcohol}$ and ${\mathrm{CO}}_2$

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of fermentation: Fermentation is a metabolic process that converts sugar to acids, gases, or alcohol. It occurs in yeast and bacteria, and also in oxygen-starved muscle cells, as in the case of lactic acid fermentation.
2. Identify the main chemical reaction involved in fermentation: The most common type of fermentation is alcoholic fermentation, where sugars such as glucose are converted into ethanol and carbon dioxide.
3. Recognize the role of enzymes: Enzymes like zymase in yeast catalyze the conversion of glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) into ethanol (C₂H₅OH) and carbon dioxide (CO₂).
4. Consider the applications of fermentation: In organic chemistry, fermentation is primarily used to produce alcohol, such as ethanol, which is used in alcoholic beverages and as a biofuel.
5. Conclude the primary purpose: The primary purpose of fermentation in organic chemistry is to convert sugars into alcohol and carbon dioxide, which is a key process in the production of alcoholic beverages and various industrial applications.