Question : Scurvy is caused by not having enough ________, resulting in general weakness, anaemia, gum disease and skin bleeding.
Option 1: cyanocobalamin
Option 2: ascorbic acid
Option 3: niacin
Option 4: thiamine
Correct Answer: ascorbic acid
Solution : The correct option is ascorbic acid.
Scurvy is caused by insufficient ascorbic acid, also known as vitamin C, in the diet. Ascorbic acid is essential for synthesising collagen, a protein crucial for maintaining the integrity of connective tissues. Without adequate vitamin C intake, collagen synthesis is impaired, leading to symptoms such as general weakness, anaemia, gum disease, and skin bleeding characteristic of scurvy.