Prelims 2021 · Science and Technology · Question 21
Which one of the following is used in preparing a natural mosquito repellent?
Answer
Lemongrass
- (a) Congress grass: Parthenium hysterophorus is an invasive weed and a known allergen; it is not used for making natural mosquito repellents. Verdict: Incorrect.
- (b) Elephant grass: Mainly used as fodder and for biomass; it has no standard use as a natural mosquito repellent. Verdict: Incorrect.
- (c) Lemongrass: Lemongrass oil contains citral/citronella-type compounds and is commonly used in natural mosquito repellents. Verdict: Correct.
- (d) Nut grass: Cyperus rotundus is known more as a weed/medicinal plant, not a standard source for mosquito repellent preparation. Verdict: Incorrect.