Biofuels Flashcards
How does it work?
First the plant, such as corn, is grown. Then the corn is ground up and water and enzymes are added, which make the corn starch turn to ethanol. The ethanol is then distilled and mixed with petrol.
What are biofuels?
Biofuels are liquid fuels made from plant material, to use for cars, trucks and planes.
What does carbon neutral mean?
It means that overall, it does not add extra carbon dioxide to the air.
Why are biofuels sometimes called carbon neutral?
Because, as ethanol is burned it gives out carbon dioxide, but that carbon dioxide is then taken in by growing corn, through the process of photosynthesis. So it isn’t really adding more carbon dioxide to the air.
Why do some people think ethanol is not carbon neutral?
Because for it to be transported to other places, it takes big lories and a lot of machinery which run on petrol and diesel, therefore adding more carbon dioxide to the environment.
