Biofuels Flashcards
Why are biofuels better than fossil fuels?
They are carbon neutral and are made by using natural products with useful waste products
What is fermentation?
When bacteria or yeast break down sugars by anaerobic respiration
How is ethanol made?
Yeast breaks down glucose by anaerobic respiration
What is the equation for the break down of glucose?
Glucose > ethanol + carbon dioxide + energy
Where do you get the glucose from?
Sugar cane or maize starch
What is biogas?
It’s made by anaerobic fermentation of waste material and is 70% methane and 30% carbon dioxide
What needs to be kept constant in a fermenter for biogas to be made?
The temperature
What is a disadvantage of biogas?
It has to be used straightaway because it can’t be stored as a liquid
What are the waste products of biogas production used for?
Fertiliser for crops
What are the 4 factors to consider when designing a generator?
Cost, convenience, efficiency and position
