Question

Diatomaceous earth is used in (a) Polishing (b) Filteration of oils (c) Filteration of syrups (d) All of these

Short answer

All of the uses mentioned in the options are valid applications of Diatomaceous Earth. Therefore, the correct answer is (d) All of these.

Step-by-step solution

Understand Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous Earth is a naturally occurring, soft, siliceous sedimentary rock that is easily crumbled into a fine white to off-white powder. It's used in various industrial processes and products due to its unique properties.

Explore the Uses

Diatomaceous Earth can be used to polish surfaces because of its abrasive nature. It also acts as a filtration medium because of its porous and absorbent nature, making it suitable for filteration of oils and drinkables like syrups.

Match with the Options

As per the information about Diatomaceous Earth and its applications, it serves all the stated uses - polishing, filteration of oils, and filteration of syrups.

Key concepts

Industrial applications of Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is a versatile material widely used across various industries for its natural origin, unique properties, and sustainability. The industrial applications of DE are numerous due to its high porosity, low density, and abrasive characteristics. It is commonly used as a mild abrasive suitable for polishing metals and cleaning products. Other industrial uses include being an integral component in manufacturing paints and plastics where it serves as an anti-blocking agent. DE's high absorption capacity makes it a preferred medium for spill clean-ups, as well as an anti-caking agent in animal feed and fertilizers.

Moreover, its thermal stability and insulating properties see DE applied in construction and insulation, enhancing the fire resistance and strength of materials. The agricultural sector also benefits from DE as a natural pesticide, adhering to environmental and safety regulations. While these represent only a sample of DE's vast range of applications, understanding these can contribute to its innovative use in existing and new industrial processes.

Filtration medium properties

Filtration involves separating suspended particles from a liquid or gas, and DE is exceptionally effective in this application due to its filtration medium properties. Its intricate porous structure allows liquids to flow through while trapping contaminants, resulting in a cleaner product. For instance, in the food and beverage industry, DE is used to filter syrups, oils, and even wine, improving clarity and stability without altering taste or aroma.

High Particle Retention

DE has a high particle-retention capacity, meaning fine particles that would typically pass through other filters are effectively caught.

Regenerable Material

It is often used in water treatment facilities, where its effectiveness can be renewed through calcination, making DE a sustainable choice for continuous use.

Chemical Stability

Its chemical inertness ensures that there are no reactions with the materials being filtered, which is crucial in many chemical processes. Given these properties, DE is a go-to filtration medium in not only industrial settings but also in areas requiring high purity, such as pharmaceutical manufacturing.

NEET Biology material

NEET, or National Eligibility cum Entrance Test, is a preeminent medical entrance examination in India, and its syllabus includes a vast array of biological concepts, one of which is the significance of natural resources like Diatomaceous Earth. DE finds a special mention in environmental biology topics due to its natural origin and ecological applications. For NEET aspirants, understanding the ecological role of DE can lead to a broader understanding of resource management and sustainability.

In the preparation for NEET Biology, students need to acquaint themselves with how organisms like diatoms contribute to ecosystems, both in building them — since diatoms through their silica cell walls contribute to the formation of DE — and in sustaining them through applications such as natural pest control. Furthermore, linking the functional properties of DE with biological processes, like the filtration aspect in the excretory system of organisms, can deepen students' conceptual grasp. By drawing parallels between such natural phenomena and NEET Biology concepts, students can better retain and apply their knowledge during the exam.