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?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 1 and 2 only
- (c) 2 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3 ✓ UPSC's answer
Why the answer is (d)
• Maize is India's main source of industrial starch (corn starch), used in food, textiles and paper (statement 1).
• Corn oil extracted from the germ can be converted into biodiesel (statement 2), and maize is fermented to make ethanol and beverages such as bourbon whiskey and corn beer (statement 3).
• Maize also feeds the poultry industry and is used for ethanol blending in India.
• Hence 1, 2 and 3, option (d).
Why the other options are wrong
- (a) 1 only
- Biodiesel and alcohol are also made from maize.
- (b) 1 and 2 only
- Alcoholic beverages are also made from maize.
- (c) 2 and 3 only
- Starch is also made from maize.
Asked in the GS Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2014, held on 24 August 2014. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.