Topic 5 - Fuels Flashcards
Hydrocarbons are
Fuels such as petrol and diesel - they’re made of just carbon and hydrogen
Because crude oil is a mixture, it can be separated because
The different hydrocarbon molecules aren’t chemically bonded to one another so they all keep their original properties such as they’re condensing points
Crude oil can be separated using
Fractional distillation
The shorter the molecules,
The more flammable the hydrocarbon is and the more runny/ less viscous it is.
What are the different levels in a fractionating column ?
Bitumen Fuel oil Diesel Kerosene Naphtha Petrol Gases
Wen there’s plenty of oxygen, hydrocarbons burn to produce
Only carbon dioxide and water
If there isn’t enough oxygen the combustion will be
Incomplete
When a combustion is incomplete what can be produced?
Carbon dioxide, water, carbon monoxide and carbon
What do you need to consider when choosing the best fuel?
- ease of ignition
- energy value
- ash and smoke
- storage and transport
When fossil fuels are burnt they release
Carbon dioxide and water vapour into the atmosphere
Sulfur dioxide causes
Acid rain
How does sulfur dioxide cause acid rain?
It mixes with clouds to form dilute sulfuric acid. This then falls as acid rain which causes lakes to become acidic and many plants and animals die as a result. It also damaged limestone buildings and statues and links between acid rain and human health have been suggested.
Why isn’t sulfur removed from all girls before they’re burnt?
- costs more
- takes more energy which releases more greenhouse gases
How can acid rain be prevented
- acid gas scrubbers take harmful gas out before they release they’re fumes into the atmosphere
- cars are fitted with catalytic converters to clean up their exhaust gases
- reducing usage of fossil fuels
Crude oil is a mixture of
Different sized hydrocarbon molecules
