Final answer:
Formic acid is the compound responsible for the stinging sensation of a fire ant bite, distinguished by the characteristic burning feeling and its presence in ant and wasp stings.
Step-by-step explanation:
The acid responsible for the stinging sensation from the bite of a fire ant is formic acid, which is known scientifically as HCOOH or methanoic acid. Its name is derived from the Latin word 'formicus,' meaning 'ant,' and it was first obtained by the distillation of ants.
Formic acid is the simplest carboxylic acid and is known for causing the pain and irritation associated with ant and wasp stings, as well as having a characteristic odor that can be detected in ant nests. When fire ants bite, they inject formic acid into the skin, leading to the familiar burning sensation. It should not be confused with other acids such as acetic acid, which is found in vinegar.