UPSC Prelims 2014·GS1·economy·economic sectors and development

Consider the following statements: 1. Maize can be used for the production of starch. 2. Oil extracted from maize can be a feedstock for biodiesel. 3. Alcoholic beverages can be produced by using maize. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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  1. A1 only
  2. B1 and 2 only
  3. C2 and 3 only
  4. D1, 2 and 3Correct

Explanation

Maize (also known as corn) is one of the most widely cultivated cereal grains globally and has diverse applications beyond direct human consumption. Let's examine its uses: Maize can be used for the production of starch: This statement is correct. Maize is a primary source for industrial starch production. Maize starch is widely used in the food industry as a thickener, sweetener (e.g., corn syrup, high-fructose corn syrup), and in various non-food industrial applications. Oil extracted from maize can be a feedstock for biodiesel: This statement is correct. Corn oil, extracted from the germ of the maize kernel, is a vegetable oil that can be processed through transesterification to produce biodiesel, serving as a renewable fuel source. Alcoholic beverages can be produced by using maize: This statement is correct. Maize is a common fermentable carbohydrate source used in the production of various alcoholic beverages, most notably bourbon whiskey. Ethanol produced from maize fermentation is also widely used as a biofuel. Given these widespread applications, all three statements accurately describe the uses of maize.
economy: Consider the following statements: 1. Maize can be used for the production of starch. 2. Oil extracted from maize can be

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