Question

The most common substrate used in distilleries for the production of ethanol is __________.

• A. Molasses
• B. Soya meal
• C. Corn meal
• D. Groundgram

Hint:

Remember: Ethanol fermentation → Sugar source → Molasses.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Concept: Ethanol is produced by fermentation of sugars using microorganisms like yeast.
Step 1: Understanding substrate requirement.
Fermentation requires a sugar-rich substrate.
Step 2: Role of molasses.
Molasses, a by-product of sugar industry, is rich in sucrose and is widely used for ethanol production.
Step 3: Evaluate options.

• Molasses $\rightarrow$ Rich in sugars, commonly used (correct)
• Soya meal $\rightarrow$ Protein-rich, not suitable (incorrect)
• Corn meal $\rightarrow$ Used in some countries, but not most common (incorrect)
• Groundgram $\rightarrow$ Not used (incorrect)

Step 4: Conclusion.
Thus, molasses is the most common substrate used for ethanol production.