Scientists and engineers are working to develop ways to replace corn with a different plant, such as switchgrass, in the production of ethanol. This is largely because using corn to produce ethanol could cause a problem for society. Which of the following statements best describes this problem?

A. Chemical processes do not exist that can transform corn's sugars into ethanol.

B. Grass resources are scarce and could be used up if harvested to produce ethanol.

C. Harvesting corn for ethanol could come into conflict with harvesting corn for food.

D. Chemical processes do not exist that can release the chemical energy in ethanol.

C

Explanation:

Using corn to produce ethanol will significantly reduce the amount of corn, available for the food industry. Note, that corn is used not only as a food for people, but also as a good source of energy for the animals due to its high productivity. As the amount of the farming soil is limited and the humanity is facing the lack of the food already, utilizing the corn to make ethanol, specially in high volumes, will have further negative impact on the starving people. In addition, note, that ethanol will be used by rich people, who already have good access to the food, so low income society will face further issues.