Q. Which of the following pairs is/are NOT correctly matched ? (Acid) – (Acid found in)
1. Lactic acid – Curd
2. Tartaric acid – Grapes
3. Acetic acid – Potato
Select the correct answer from the code given below:
a) 1 and 2
b) Only 3
c) 2 and 3
d) Only 1
Correct Answer: b) Only 3
Question from UPPSC Prelims 2025
Explanation:
Evaluate each pair:
– Lactic acid – Curd: Correct. Curd forms when Lactobacillus ferments lactose into lactic acid, giving the sour taste.
– Tartaric acid – Grapes: Correct. Grapes are naturally rich in tartaric acid (also seen as potassium bitartrate deposits in wine).
– Acetic acid – Potato: Incorrect. Acetic acid is the main acid in vinegar, not in potatoes. Potatoes contain small amounts of acids like oxalic, citric, and malic, not acetic.
Hence, the only NOT correctly matched pair is 3.
