Cracking

Question 1

Why do we do cracking?

Answer 1

When crude oil is fractionally distilled, long chain (LC) hydrocarbons are produced.
LC hydrocarbons are in lower demand, causing companies to use cracking as a method to create shorter chain (SC) hydrocarbons.
Cracking is the process by which LC alkanes are converted into a mixture fo alkenes and (SC) alkanes.

Question 2

Cracking Experiment Materials

Answer 2

Test tube & bung (stopper)
Bunsen burner
Ceramic fibre & crude oil
Clamp
Thermometer
Delivery tube & collecting tube

Question 3

Cracking Experiment Method

Answer 3

1. Add 2cm cubed of ceramic fibre, then add the crude oil.
2. When the temperature reaches 100°C, replace the collection tube with another test tube.
3. Repeat step 2 for temperatures, 150°C, 200°C, and 250°C.

For the first step 2, put the collecting tube in a beaker of cold water.

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*For further clarification (diagram)

Question 4

Fractions

Answer 4

Fractions are mixtures of hydrocarbons separated from eachother using fractional distillation. All hydrocarbons in each fraction have similar boiling points.

Question 5

Refinery Gases

Answer 5

A mixture of Alkanes 1-4.
Can be separated.
Commonly used as liquid petroleum gas (LPG).
Use: domestic heating and cooking.

Question 6

Gasoline (Petrol)

Answer 6

Use: fuel in cars.

Question 7

Kerosene

Answer 7

Use: fuel for jet aircraft, domestic heating oil and “paraffin” for small heaters and lamps.

Question 8

Diesel

Answer 8

Sometimes converted into more useful organic chemicals, (e.g. petrol) by the process cracking.

Question 9

Fuel Oil

Answer 9

Use: fuel for ships and industrial heating.

Question 10

Bitumen

Answer 10

Thick, black material.
Mixed with small pieces of rock.
Use: to make the top surface of roads.