Enzymatic conversion of glucose to ethanol is

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks for the name of the process in which enzymes convert glucose into ethanol.

Step 2: The concept Fermentation is the breakdown of sugars by enzymes (from microorganisms such as yeast) into simpler compounds, usually ethanol and carbon dioxide, without needing oxygen.

The enzyme zymase (found in yeast) catalyses this reaction:

C₆H₁₂O₆ → 2C₂H₅OH + 2CO₂ (glucose → ethanol + carbon dioxide)

Step 3: Check each option

• A. Polymerization: This joins many small monomers into a large polymer (e.g., ethene → polythene). Glucose is not being joined into a chain here, so it is not correct.
• B. Hydrogenation: This adds hydrogen to unsaturated compounds (e.g., converting vegetable oil to margarine using a nickel catalyst). It is not correct.
• C. Fermentation: This is the enzymatic conversion of sugars like glucose into ethanol and CO₂. It is correct.
• D. Saponification: This is the alkaline hydrolysis of fats or oils to make soap and glycerol. It is not correct.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is C. fermentation.

Exam tip: Whenever you see "enzyme + sugar → alcohol", think fermentation (palm wine and local brews like burukutu are Nigerian examples). Remember the other terms this way:

• Polymerization: poly = many units joined
• Hydrogenation: hydrogen is added
• Saponification: soap making