Corn trivia quiz: from history and cultivation to delicious ways to eat it
Corn is a barbecue staple and an essential ingredient in chowders and salads.
Although it’s often thought of as a vegetable, it’s actually a grain, and thanks to its high nutritional value, it’s grown and eaten all over the world.
In this article, we’ll introduce fun trivia about corn in a quiz format.
We’ve gathered a wide range of tidbits—from the history of corn and the names of its parts to delicious ways to enjoy it—so read on and have fun.
If you come across anything you didn’t know before, take this opportunity to remember it!
Corn trivia quiz: from history and cultivation to delicious ways to eat it (1–10)
What exactly are corn kernels?
- pistil
- stamen
- fruit
See the answer
fruit
Each kernel of corn is actually an individual fruit, not a stamen or pistil. These fruits cluster together to form a single ear of corn. Since each kernel is a fruit, each one is, in fact, a seed.
Which of the following is correct about the number of corn silks?
- More than the grains
- Less than a grain
- There are as many as the grains.
See the answer
There are as many as the grains.
Each corn silk is connected to an individual kernel and plays a crucial role in pollination. Therefore, the number of kernels and silks on an ear of corn is the same.
How many times more dietary fiber does corn have compared to sweet potatoes?
- double
- four times
- six times
See the answer
four times
The amount of dietary fiber in corn is said to be about four times that of sweet potatoes. Many people think sweet potatoes are rich in dietary fiber, but in fact, corn contains even more. This dietary fiber helps with digestion and supports a healthy gut environment.
In what year AD was corn (maize) introduced to Japan?
- the year 1492
- the year 1579
- the year 1642
See the answer
the year 1579
Corn is said to have been introduced to Japan in 1579. Records show that Europeans brought in flint varieties.
Which of the following is correct about the number of kernels on a corn cob?
- There must be no more than 100 pieces.
- It is always an odd number.
- It is always even.
See the answer
It is always even.
Corn kernels always come in even numbers because, during growth, each kernel splits into two as it develops. The number of kernels varies from ear to ear, but it will always be even, so try slicing it into rounds and counting them.
What time of day can the sweetest corn be harvested?
- morning
- noon
- night
See the answer
morning
Corn accumulates sugars during the night, and when the sun rises it begins using those sugars as energy for growth. As a result, the sugar content gradually decreases as the day goes on. To harvest the sweetest corn, it’s best to pick it early in the morning.
Which one is made from corn starch?
- cosmetics
- diaper
- automobile tire
See the answer
diaper
Cornstarch, due to its high absorbency, is used as an absorbent material in disposable diapers. In this way, corn demonstrates its value across a wide range of fields beyond food.