This question is about hydrocarbons and the uses of hydrocarbons - AQA - GCSE Chemistry Combined Science - Question 4 - 2022 - Paper 2

A hydrocarbon is a molecule made up of carbon and hydrogen atoms only.

The complete equation for the reaction is:

$C_{18}H_{38} \rightarrow C_{4}H_{10} + 2C_{2}H_{4} + C_{6}H_{8}$

One of the products of cracking, such as butane or ethylene, is in high demand because they are more useful as fuels. They are generally more flammable and can serve as primary feedstocks for the production of chemicals and plastics.

When evaluating the sustainability of wooden and plastic window frames, we must consider both environmental and economic factors:

Environmental Factors

• Source of Materials: Wooden frames use renewable resources, while plastic frames rely on non-renewable hydrocarbons.
• Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Production of plastic contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, adding to global warming.
• Waste and Pollution: Plastic production generates more oxides of nitrogen and sulfur dioxide, which can harm air quality. Furthermore, plastic waste contributes significantly to landfill issues.
• Energy Consumption: The total energy consumption for plastic window frames is considerably higher, which raises concerns about sustainability.

Economic Factors

• Cost of Production: The lifetime cost of maintaining wooden frames can be lower compared to plastics, which may have a higher upfront cost due to materials.
• Market Demand: Wood is often perceived as more aesthetically pleasing, potentially driving higher consumer demand.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while both materials have their pros and cons, wooden frames may be considered more sustainable given their renewable nature and lower environmental impact.