UPSC Prelims 2014 · GS Paper I
Question 73: Geography
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?
AnswerUPSC’s answer is (d).
Maize is a versatile crop. Its grain is the source of corn starch, which is widely used in food and industry. Oil extracted from the germ of maize can be used as a feedstock to make biodiesel, and maize can be fermented to produce alcoholic beverages such as whisky and beer. So all three statements are correct.
- 1. Maize is a major source of starch.
- 2. Maize oil can be turned into biodiesel.
- 3. Fermented maize yields alcoholic drinks.
How you could have got this
- If you were sure statement 1 is correct, (c) goes: it leaves 1 out.
What you needed to know: Maize is a major source of starch.
- Then, if you were sure statement 3 is correct, (a) and (b) go: each of them leaves 3 out.
What you needed to know: Fermented maize yields alcoholic drinks.
Only (d) is left. You didn’t need statement 2.
Which options go is worked out from UPSC’s key and the options, not by a model.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Wrong. Maize oil and alcoholic beverages are also uses.
- (b) Wrong. Alcoholic beverages are also made from maize.
- (c) Wrong. Starch from maize is also a use.
- (d) Right. Starch, biodiesel feedstock and alcoholic drinks all come from maize.
Answer: UPSC’s key. Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2014, General Studies Paper I, Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.