Palm Oil — Origins, Uses and Biodiesel — UPSC Prelims PYQ 2021
With reference to ‘palm oil, consider the following statements:
- The palm oil tree is native to Southeast Asia.
- The palm oil is a raw material for some industries producing lipstick and perfumes.
- The palm oil can be used to produce biodiesel.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
- 1 and 2 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
Explanation
Statement 1 is incorrect
- The palm oil tree (Elaeis guineensis) is native to Africa, not Southeast Asia. It was introduced to Southeast Asia during colonial times, where it now thrives in countries like Malaysia and Indonesia, which together produce over 85% of the world’s palm oil.
Statement 2 is correct
- Palm oil is widely used in the cosmetics industry, including the production of lipsticks, perfumes, and other personal care products. It is valued for its smooth texture, stability, and ability to hold color well, making it a popular ingredient in cosmetics.
Statement 3 is correct
- Palm oil is commonly used in the production of biodiesel, which is considered a renewable alternative to fossil fuels. However, its environmental sustainability is heavily debated due to the deforestation and habitat destruction associated with palm oil cultivation.
Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only; Difficulty Level: Medium
