Uses of maize: UPSC Prelims PYQ 2014 — starch, oil, alcohol

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?

1. 1 only
2. 1 and 2 only
3. 2 and 3 only
4. 1, 2 and 3

Explanation

All statements are correct

• Maize is a highly versatile crop with wide-ranging applications. It is a major source of starch, which is extracted from its endosperm and used extensively in food processing as well as in industries like paper, textiles, and pharmaceuticals. The oil obtained from maize (corn oil), primarily from the germ, can be processed into biodiesel, making it a useful renewable energy feedstock. Additionally, due to its high carbohydrate content, maize is widely used in fermentation processes for the production of alcoholic beverages such as whiskey and for industrial ethanol.

Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3; Difficulty Level: Easy