by Q. Consider the following statements:
UPSC Civil Services Examination (Prelims) 2025 – General Studies Paper I
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
(a) Both Statement I and Statement II are correct and Statement II explains Statement I
(b) Both Statement I and Statement II are correct but Statement II does not explain Statement I
(c) Statement I is correct but Statement II is not correct
(d) Statement I is not correct but Statement II is correct
Answer: (d) Statement I is not correct but Statement II is correct
Explanation:
Statement I is not correct.
Although Brazil and the United States are the two largest ethanol producers in the world, the United States produces more ethanol than Brazil. The USA has consistently remained the largest global producer, mainly due to large-scale corn-based ethanol production.
Statement II is correct.
There is a clear difference in the feedstock used for ethanol production in the two countries:
In the United States, corn (maize) is the principal feedstock.
In Brazil, sugarcane is the principal feedstock, which is more energy-efficient and has a better carbon balance.
Answer: (d) Statement I is not correct but Statement II is correct
