In India, cluster bean (Guar) is traditionally used as a vegetable or animal feed, but recently the cultivation of this has assumed significance. Which one of the following statements is correct in this context?

1. The oil extracted from seeds is used in the manufacture of biodegradable plastics
2. The gum made from its seeds is used in the extraction of shale gas
3. The leaf extract of this plant has the properties of antihistamines
4. It is a source of high quality biodiesel

Explanation

Statement (b) is correct

• Guar gum, extracted from the seeds of the cluster bean (Guar), is widely used in hydraulic fracturing (fracking) for shale gas extraction. It acts as a viscosity enhancer in fracking fluids, facilitating the transport of sand particles into rock fractures.

Answer: (b) The gum made from its seeds is used in the extraction of shale gas; Difficulty Level: Easy