Corn, also known as maize, is a cereal grain first domesticated by indigenous peoples in southern Mexico about 10,000 years ago. It has since become one of the most important staple crops worldwide. Corn is a member of the grass family, Gramineae, and its scientific name is Zea mays.

Corn plants have a tall, thick stalk with large leaves. The edible part of the corn plant is the cob, which contains the kernels. These kernels are the seeds of the plant and are typically yellow or white, but they can also come in various colors depending on the specific variety.

Corn is a versatile crop and is used for a wide range of purposes. It is a major food source for humans, consumed in various forms including fresh, dried, ground into flour, and processed into a wide array of food products. Additionally, corn is used in the production of various industrial products like corn oil, cornstarch, corn syrup, and ethanol (a biofuel). Corn is also a crucial feed for livestock in many parts of the world.