Jicama: An Overview of the Food Plant

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Questions and Answers

To which plant family does jicama (Pachyrhizus erosus) belong?

Cucurbitaceae

Solanaceae

Brassicaceae

Fabaceae (correct)

How is jicama classified in terms of its physical structure?

Woody stem plant

Herbaceous vine (correct)

Tree

Shrub

What type of life cycle does jicama have?

Biennial

Perennial (correct)

Annual

Ephemeral

What initial processing step is taken after harvesting jicama?

Peeling the skin Signup and view all the answers

Which regions of the world are known for the wide cultivation of jicama?

Southeast Asia and Central America Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary economic purpose for cultivating Jatropha curcas?

Biodiesel production Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following steps comes immediately after harvesting the Jatropha seeds?

Drying Signup and view all the answers

Which processing step involves removing impurities from the extracted oil from Jatropha seeds?

Filtering Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct order of processing steps for Jatropha seeds starting from harvest?

Harvesting, Drying, Crushing, Pressing Signup and view all the answers

Which method is used to encourage resin to ooze from myrrh trees?

Incision Signup and view all the answers

How is myrrh resin processed after collection?

It is cleaned, graded, and then ground into powder. Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic is essential for selecting myrrh trees for harvesting?

Trees should have bark that is rich in resin. Signup and view all the answers

What form does myrrh resin take after it dries?

Tears Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary cause of the Irish Potato Famine in the mid-19th century?

Potato blight affecting the crop Signup and view all the answers

Which tuber is native to the Andes Mountains of South America?

Potato (Solanum tuberosum) Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of fresh potatoes is water?

80% Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant characteristic of the yam species mentioned?

They can produce tubers weighing up to 20 kg. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes true roots from other underground plant structures?

True roots are specialized for absorption and conduction of water and nutrients. Signup and view all the answers

Which method is used to remove irritant calcium oxalate crystals from Taro?

Boiling in water Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about bulbs is incorrect?

Bulbs have layered structures similar to corms. Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic accurately describes the plants classified as rhizomes?

They are horizontal underground stems that can swell. Signup and view all the answers

Which pair of vegetables exemplifies true roots and their respective characteristics?

Carrot - large swollen true roots. Signup and view all the answers

What was a primary factor that made overland caravan trade routes increasingly dangerous?

Profiteering practices along the routes Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements correctly describes the early impact of Vasco de Gama's discovery in 1499?

It created an alternative sea trade route for spices. Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant economic activity established by the Dutch and British by the mid-1800s?

Establishment of spice plantations Signup and view all the answers

Which essential oil is commonly used in the cosmetics and perfume industries, derived from a member of the Mint Family?

Rosemary oil Signup and view all the answers

In which culinary application is oregano primarily used?

Enhancing Italian dishes Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is NOT true about the historical use of spices?

The Spice Trade included the exchange of European grains for Asian spices. Signup and view all the answers

What major outcome resulted from the Crusaders' attack on Constantinople?

The creation of new cultural and artistic legacies in Venice. Signup and view all the answers

Which chemicals are primarily responsible for the flavors and aromas associated with spices?

Aromatic terpenoids and monoterpenes present in various plant parts. Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant impact of Marco Polo's expeditions on spice trade in Europe?

He introduced new Indian and East Asian spices to European culture. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes cellulose from starch in terms of its molecular structure?

Cellulose consists of glucose units linked by beta (ß) glycosidic bonds. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following represents a significant role of amylase in the digestive process?

It breaks down starch into maltose and glucose. Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic of bioethanol makes it a sustainable alternative to gasoline?

It is produced through anaerobic fermentation from plant sources. Signup and view all the answers

How does the structure of starch impact its digestibility compared to cellulose?

Starch's glycosidic bonds are alpha (α), which are easier to break than beta (ß) bonds in cellulose. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary structural difference between monosaccharides and disaccharides?

Monosaccharides consist of single sugar units, whereas disaccharides are composed of two linked monosaccharides. Signup and view all the answers

What is considered an efficient energy balance ratio for bioethanol production?

8.0 Signup and view all the answers

What factor is likely responsible for Brazil achieving higher energy balances in bioethanol production compared to the U.S.?

Type of feedstock used Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following plants is NOT mentioned as a potential source for bioethanol production due to high cellulose content?

Barley Signup and view all the answers

What was a social impact of establishing large plantations of sugar cane in the Caribbean?

Rise of the African slave trade Signup and view all the answers

What type of fats are characterized by having one or more double bonds in the fatty acid chain?

Unsaturated fats Signup and view all the answers

Which process, involving heating oil in a vacuum with water, converts unsaturated fatty acids into a more stable form?

Hydrogenation Signup and view all the answers

Which type of double bond arrangement in fatty acids results in a higher melting point and stability?

Trans double bonds Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following types of oils is primarily used in paints and varnishes due to its high levels of unsaturation?

Castor bean oil Signup and view all the answers

What health risk is associated with the consumption of trans fatty acids produced during hydrogenation?

Increasing LDL cholesterol levels Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary method through which biodiesel is produced from plant oils?

Transesterification Signup and view all the answers

What is the significant downside of biodiesel related to its emissions compared to petrodiesel?

Higher nitric oxide emissions Signup and view all the answers

Which plant oil has the highest potential yield for biodiesel production based on area cultivated?

Palm oil Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic of soap molecules allows them to effectively clean grease and dirt?

Soap molecules have both hydrophobic and hydrophilic ends. Signup and view all the answers

Which historical civilization is attributed with some of the earliest records of soap use?

Babylonians Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between modern detergents and traditional soaps?

Modern detergents are cheaper and easier to manufacture. Signup and view all the answers

Which plant oil is mentioned as producing a mild soap?

Olive oil Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of using lye in the soap-making process?

To hydrolyze oils and separate glycerol. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary advantage of using natural rubber for the sidewalls of modern radial tires?

Better shock absorption due to higher hysteresis Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic of synthetic rubber makes it less desirable than natural rubber?

It generally exhibits lower flexibility Signup and view all the answers

Which issue was associated with Charles Macintosh's method for waterproofing cloth?

It turned sticky and unmanageable in high temperatures. Signup and view all the answers

What critical discovery significantly increased the importance of rubber in the 19th century?

The process of vulcanization Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for the Para rubber tree's latex production in response to wounding?

To seal wounds and deter herbivores Signup and view all the answers

Which process alters natural rubber to improve its durability and elasticity?

Vulcanization Signup and view all the answers

What component is primarily responsible for stabilizing natural rubber during vulcanization?

Sulfur Signup and view all the answers

Which factor has contributed to the shift of natural rubber production from its native region to Southeast Asia and Africa?

The absence of rubber tree pests and diseases Signup and view all the answers

What is the structural significance of polyterpenes in plant latex?

They are polymers formed from repeating isoprene units Signup and view all the answers

What specific property of plant fibres influences their application in various products?

Surface roughness and elasticity Signup and view all the answers

Which method of fibre extraction involves the use of stagnant water for microbial decomposition?

Retting Signup and view all the answers

What differentiates Gossypium hirsutum from other cotton species in terms of agricultural practices?

It completes its life cycle in a single growing season. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary advantage of using the ginning process for cotton fibre extraction?

Mechanically removes seed hair fibres efficiently. Signup and view all the answers

Which ancient civilization provides archaeological evidence of early cotton use?

Pre-Inca civilizations in South America Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of mercerization in cotton processing?

To enhance the yarn's dyeability and durability Signup and view all the answers

What unique feature differentiates kapok fibers from cotton fibers?

Kapok fibers are brittle and cannot be spun into a thread. Signup and view all the answers

What is the approximate global annual production of cotton in bales?

100 million bales Signup and view all the answers

Which step in cotton processing involves the use of caustic soda bleach?

Bleaching Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of fresh cotton fibers is made up of cellulose?

91% Signup and view all the answers

Which coffee species is primarily known for its superior flavor and is often used in higher-quality fresh brewed coffees?

Arabica Signup and view all the answers

What is the average annual harvest yield per coffee plant?

2.5 kg Signup and view all the answers

Which factor does NOT influence the final flavor of coffee?

Harvest time Signup and view all the answers

What type of growing conditions do coffee plants thrive in?

Humid environments with steady temperatures Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary factor that distinguishes black tea production from green tea production?

The methods used to process the leaves Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following locations was NOT historically associated with the introduction of coffee to European markets?

Havana, Cuba Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic of tea production directly influences its flavor profile?

The size of the harvested leaves Signup and view all the answers

In which year were coffee houses first established in London?

1700 Signup and view all the answers

Which of these factors contributed to the quick spread of coffee in Europe during the 17th century?

The introduction by Venetian merchants Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of the gentle pressing in the winemaking process?

To extract the remaining liquid from the crushed grapes Signup and view all the answers

What does the French classification system emphasize to maintain wine quality?

Geographical origin and historic reputation Signup and view all the answers

Which wine classification is intended for everyday local consumption in France?

Vin de Table Signup and view all the answers

What factor is primarily responsible for the premium pricing of certain small area wines in France?

Specific geographical origin associated with quality Signup and view all the answers

Which winemaking country has been traditionally known for its significant contributions to the global wine industry?

France Signup and view all the answers

Which grape varieties are exclusively grown in the Burgundy region?

Pinot Noir and Gamay Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic that distinguishes Champagne from other sparkling wines?

It can only be produced in the Champagne region of France. Signup and view all the answers

In the Bordeaux region, which type of wines are primarily produced in the northern area?

Dry red wines Signup and view all the answers

What is the lowest classification of wine under Italian wine laws introduced in 1963?

Vino de Tavola Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic is essential for the production of traditional Champagne?

Secondary fermentation in the bottle Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic of the grapevine Vitis vinifera contributes to its selection in winemaking?

It is native to the eastern Mediterranean region. Signup and view all the answers

Which process differentiates the production methods of red and white wine?

Red wine fermentation lasts longer than that of white wine. Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary historical impact of the introduction of phylloxera to European grape vines?

It caused massive destruction of European grape vineyards. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common step in the fermentation process of crushed grapes for winemaking?

Using a fermentation vat to agitate the mixture during fermentation. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes the relationship between grape variety propagation and winemaking?

Clonal propagation is used to maintain genetic uniformity in grape varieties. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately reflects the historical contributions of plants to medicine?

Plants have provided pharmaceutical agents such as hormones and antibiotics for thousands of years. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following percentages indicates the proportion of Western medicines that are plant-based?

25-30% Signup and view all the answers

What complex chemicals are still primarily extracted from plants due to challenges in synthetic production?

Cardiac glycosides and morphine derivatives Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following substances is classified as an alkaloid?

Atropine Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant historical factor influencing the esteem of those knowledgeable about medicinal plants?

Cultural beliefs in plant healing properties Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements regarding the global trade of medicinal plants is true?

The global trade is approximately $30 billion USD and split equally between prescription and over-the-counter items. Signup and view all the answers

How do secondary products in plants primarily benefit them?

They serve as defenses against herbivores. Signup and view all the answers

What role does quinidine play in medicine?

It is effective for cardiac treatment. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of secondary products in plants lacking an excretory system?

To neutralize waste products and toxins. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary psychoactive component found in cannabis?

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements correctly describes the historical use of peyote cactus?

It has been used ceremonially by Indigenous peoples to connect with the spirit world. Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant consequence of the ban on cannabis in the 1930s?

A racial component influenced the push to outlaw its use. Signup and view all the answers

Which regions are noted for having tolerant cannabis consumption laws?

Amsterdam and the Kashmir region of India Signup and view all the answers

Which form of cannabis is primarily made from the purified concentrated resin of the plant?

Hashish Signup and view all the answers

What physiological effects does nicotine derived from tobacco have on the central nervous system?

Stimulant effects that can also have tranquilizing effects Signup and view all the answers

What is one potentially dangerous effect of scopolamine, a tropane alkaloid found in solanaceous plants?

Causes nausea, convulsions, and can lead to death Signup and view all the answers

What is a known traditional use for the seeds of the morning glory plant?

In divine rites and ceremonies by the Aztecs Signup and view all the answers

What unusual characteristic can result from chewing betel palm nut?

Discoloration of teeth and excessive coughing Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following psychoactive drugs is primarily classified as a hallucinogen and can cause feelings of flying?

Scopolamine Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Jicama (Pachyrhizus erosus)

Family: Pea family (Fabaceae)
Type of plant: Herbaceous vine
Life cycle: Perennial (lives longer than two years)
Native distribution: Mexico and Central America

Jicama as a Food Plant

Domestication: First domesticated in Mexico; archaeological sites in Peru date back to 3000 BC.
Widely grown regions: Central America and Southeast Asia.
Historical use: A staple in Central American diets for centuries; introduced to Southeast Asia by the Spanish in the 17th century. Popular in the Philippines, China, and other regions.

Jicama Utilization

Part used: Tuberous root (tap root system)
Processing:
- Harvesting: Harvested from the ground.
- Peeling: Thin, brown skin peeled off using a vegetable peeler or knife.
- Cutting: Cut into sticks, cubes, or slices, depending on use.
Preparation and consumption: Often eaten raw in salads, salsas, or as a snack; can be added to stir-fries, soups, and stews, retaining its crisp texture.
Additional prep note: The tuberous root can be peeled or left unpeeled depending on how it will be used.
Additional prep note: Jicama can be cut into sticks, cubes, or slices.
Additional prep note: Some sources indicate jicama is a taproot, not a tuberous root.
Additional prep note: Jicama is peeled by hand or using a knife or vegetable peeler.

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Description

Explore the fascinating world of Jicama, a herbaceous vine native to Mexico and Central America. Learn about its historical significance as a food plant, its cultivation, harvesting methods, and various culinary uses. This quiz will provide insights into how Jicama has become a staple in various diets around the world.