Q22 · UPSC Prelims 2017 · Set A · Economy

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It is possible to produce algae-based biofuels, but what is/are the likely limitation(s) of developing countries in promoting this industry?1.Production of algae-based biofuels is possible in seas only and not on continents.2.Setting up and engineering the algae-based biofuels production requires high level of expertise/technology until the construction is complete.3.Economically viable production necessitates the setting up of large-scale facilities which may raise ecological and social concerns.Select the correct answer using the code given below:

A 1 and 2 only
B 2 and 3 only
C 3 only
D 1, 2 and 3

Correct answer: (b) 2 and 3 only

Explanation

  1. A

    1 and 2 only

    (a) 1 and 2 only. Statement 1 is false: algae can be grown in inland ponds and photobioreactors, not only in the sea. Not the key.

  2. B

    2 and 3 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only. High technical skill is needed to engineer production, and viable plants tend to be large, with ecological and social costs. Statement 1 is wrong. This is the official key.

  3. C

    3 only

    (c) 3 only. Scale and social-ecological concerns are real, but statement 2 is also a limitation. 3 only is incomplete.

  4. D

    1, 2 and 3

    (d) 1, 2 and 3. The seas-only claim is incorrect, so all three fails.

Summary. Official key is (b) 2 and 3 only. Algal biofuel is not confined to the ocean; raceway ponds and closed reactors work on land. Developing countries still face a high expertise barrier until facilities are built, and commercial scale can crowd land, water and coasts, raising ecological and social issues. Statement 1 is the trap. Third-generation biofuel is the neighbouring label for algal fuel.

Same topic · past papers

UPSC has asked this before

These previous-year questions sit on the same topic. Open one to practise the earlier ask.

  1. 2020 · Q66 · General Studies · 2 marks

    Under the Kisan Credit Card scheme, short-term credit support is given to farmers for which of the following purposes? 1. Working capital for maintenance of farm assets 2. Purchase of combine harvesters, tractors and mini trucks. 3. Consumption requirements of farm households 4. Post-harvest expense 5. Construction of family house and setting up of village cold storage facility. Select the correct answer using the code given below:

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