2000 General Studies, all questions
UPSC Prelims 2000 · General Studies
Question 125: Science and Technology
Canola refers to special type of oil seed mustard varieties bred for human consumption. The main characteristic of these varieties is that the
aseeds have very high oil content
boil is rich in unsaturated fatty acids
coil has long shelf life
doil has very low Erucic acid content
AnswerThe answer is (d).
Canola is a variety of rapeseed-mustard bred in Canada to have a very low content of erucic acid (under 2 per cent), which is harmful to the heart in large amounts, and low glucosinolates in the meal. The name stands for Canadian oil, low acid. The oil is therefore safe for human consumption.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) High oil content is not the defining feature of canola.
- (b) Unsaturated fatty acids are present, but are not the defining feature.
- (c) Shelf life is not the defining feature of canola.
- (d) Right: very low erucic acid is the defining feature.
Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2000, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.