TED-Ed: How corn conquered the world | Chris A. Kniesly

Corn, primarily Yellow Dent number 2, is a major global crop, originating from teosinte in Mesoamerica. It became a staple in the Americas and later spread to Europe. The U.S. standardized corn production with Yellow Dent, aided by mechanization and synthetic fertilizers post-WWII. This led to increased production and industrial uses, such as high-fructose corn syrup. However, this success has environmental costs, including pollution and vulnerability to pests due to monoculture farming.

What is the primary type of corn grown globally?

• Sweet Corn

• Yellow Dent number 2

• Flint Corn

• Popcorn

Which civilization first domesticated corn?

• Chinese

• Ancient Egyptians

• Mesoamericans

• Romans

What was a major factor in the standardization of corn varieties in the US?

• Climate change

• Railroad trade requirements

• Government regulations

• Consumer preferences

Which technological advancement significantly reduced the time needed to harvest corn?

• Mechanized harvesters

• Irrigation systems

• Genetic modification

• Pesticides

What is one of the main uses of corn in the food industry?

• Cornmeal

• Corn oil

• High-fructose corn syrup

• Corn flour

What environmental issue is associated with corn production?

• Soil erosion

• Deforestation

• Air pollution from pesticides

• Water pollution from fertilizers

What is a potential health concern linked to high-fructose corn syrup?

• Diabetes and obesity

• Heart disease

• Liver damage

• Kidney stones