Yes, polypropylene is made from oil. It is a type of plastic, specifically a thermoplastic polymer, which is produced through the polymerization of propylene, a derivative of crude oil. The process involves the extraction of propylene from the refining of petroleum and the subsequent polymerization under certain conditions of pressure and heat. Polypropylene is known for its versatility, resistance to various chemical solvents, bases, and acids, and is widely used in packaging, textiles, automotive components, and many other applications. Given its petroleum-based origin, the production and disposal of polypropylene raise environmental concerns, leading to increased interest in recycling and finding more sustainable alternatives.

Cellulose gum and xanthan gum are not the same, though both serve as popular food additives, often used as thickeners, stabilizers, or emulsifiers. Cellulose gum, also known as carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), is derived from cellulose - the primary cell wall of green plants. On the other hand, xanthan gum is produced through a fermentation process using Xanthomonas campestris bacteria. While both gums are effective in modifying the texture of foods and are used in a variety of products, from ice cream to gluten-free baked goods, they have different properties and behaviors in solutions. Xanthan gum, for example, is known for its exceptional ability to maintain the stability of a product across a wide range of temperatures and pH levels. Deciding which gum to use depends on the specific requirements of the product's texture, mouthfeel, and stability.

Yes, ruminants can digest cellulose thanks to the symbiotic relationship with microorganisms in their stomachs. Ruminants, such as cows, sheep, and goats, possess a unique four-chambered stomach, with the rumen being a crucial component for cellulose breakdown. The rumen hosts a diverse microbial population, including bacteria, protozoa, and fungi, that produce cellulase enzymes. These enzymes break down cellulose into sugars that can be fermented into volatile fatty acids, which are then absorbed and utilized as a primary energy source by the ruminant. This digestive capability allows ruminants to convert fibrous plant materials, which many other animals cannot digest, into energy, making them highly efficient at utilizing grassy diets.