Question 73
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?
AOptions
BSolution
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.
CStrategy
For questions on common agricultural crops, be aware of their diverse applications across food, industrial, and energy sectors. Understand the versatility of major crops and their role in various value chains.
DSyllabus Analysis
This question falls under Agriculture, with cross-references to General Science and Technology (biotechnology, biofuels), highlighting the multi-faceted utility of agricultural produce.
EQuestion Analysis
Easy. This is a common knowledge question about the various uses of maize, which is a staple crop with many industrial applications.