Chapter 10: Problem 55
Coal gas: (a) Is not a good fuel (b) Is not used for lighting purpose (c) Burns with non-smoky flame (d) Burns with a smoky flame
Short Answer
Expert verified
Option C: Burns with a non-smoky flame.
Step by step solution
01
Understanding Coal Gas Properties
Coal gas is produced from the gasification of coal. It is known to be a useful gaseous fuel. Understanding this foundational property helps us evaluate the given options.
02
Analyzing Option A
Option A suggests that coal gas is not a good fuel. This is incorrect because coal gas is traditionally used as a fuel due to its combustibility.
03
Evaluating Option B
Option B states that coal gas is not used for lighting purposes. This is false since historically, coal gas has been used in gas lamps for lighting.
04
Considering Option C
Option C claims that coal gas burns with a non-smoky flame. This is generally true as coal gas burns cleanly due to its composition of hydrogen, methane, and other light hydrocarbons.
05
Reviewing Option D
Option D asserts that coal gas burns with a smoky flame. This is incorrect since the presence of light hydrocarbons leads to a cleaner, non-smoky flame.
06
Selecting the Correct Answer
Based on the analysis, Option C is the most accurate. Coal gas does indeed burn with a non-smoky flame, fitting its use as a cleaner fuel source.
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Gaseous Fuel
Coal gas is an important example of a gaseous fuel. Gaseous fuels are energy sources that are in a gas state at room temperature. Typical examples include natural gas and propane, but coal gas is distinguished due to its historical significance.
- Being in a gaseous state means these fuels are more easily mixed with air, enhancing their combustibility and efficiency.
- Unlike solid fuels like wood or coal, gaseous fuels burn more cleanly and clean-burning properties make them preferable in many applications.
Gasification Process
The gasification process is a crucial method in producing coal gas. It involves heating coal in the absence of air or with a controlled amount of air. This process helps break down coal into a gas mixture primarily made up of hydrogen, methane, carbon monoxide, and a few other gases.
- Gasification is a thermochemical process, converting carbonaceous materials into carbon monoxide, hydrogen, and carbon dioxide.
- The end products are more versatile in use, especially in energy production, chemical industries, and fuel generation.
Non-smoky Flame
When coal gas is burned, it typically produces a non-smoky flame. This quality makes it attractive for use in various applications where clean combustion is desired.
- A non-smoky flame is achieved because coal gas is largely composed of simple hydrocarbons and hydrogen, both of which combust cleanly.
- Emissions are minimized, making coal gas a more environmentally friendly option than solid fuels.
Historical Uses of Coal Gas
Coal gas played a significant role in history, particularly during the 19th and early 20th centuries. It was one of the first widely used manufactured fuels that offered a cleaner and more consistent burn compared to traditional wood or coal.
- Historically, coal gas was essential for street lighting in cities before electricity became commonplace, offering a reliable source of light through gas lamps.
- It also found use in homes for heating and lighting, providing a significant improvement over open fire methods.