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The photograph shows a multifuel camping stove designed to use various fuels - Edexcel - GCSE Chemistry - Question 6 - 2011 - Paper 1
Question 6
The photograph shows a multifuel camping stove designed to use various fuels. This stove can burn the hydrocarbon fuels, propane gas, petrol, kerosene or diesel. (... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The photograph shows a multifuel camping stove designed to use various fuels - Edexcel - GCSE Chemistry - Question 6 - 2011 - Paper 1
Step 1
Suggest two reasons why it is usually difficult to burn different hydrocarbon fuels efficiently in the same appliance.
Answer
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Different Molecular Structures: Hydrocarbons can vary significantly in their molecular sizes and shapes. Each type of fuel has a different molecular weight and structure which affects how readily it vaporizes and mixes with air for combustion.
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Varying Combustion Temperatures: Different fuels have distinct ignition and combustion temperatures. Some fuels may ignite at lower temperatures and burn more easily, while others require higher temperatures, making it difficult to achieve an optimal burn for all fuel types in the same appliance.
Step 2
Step 3
Step 4
Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of using hydrogen rather than petrol as a fuel for cars.
Answer
Advantages
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Environmental Benefits: Hydrogen fuel cells produce only water as a byproduct when combusted, reducing greenhouse gas emissions compared to petrol, which produces carbon dioxide.
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Abundant Supply: Hydrogen is abundant in natural resources and can be produced from various sources, including water and organic materials.
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High Energy Density: Hydrogen has a higher energy density by weight compared to petrol, which can lead to more efficient fuel consumption.
Disadvantages
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Production Challenges: Hydrogen production is often energy-intensive and may rely on fossil fuels, thereby still contributing to emissions unless produced sustainably.
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Storage Limitations: Storing hydrogen can be challenging due to its low density; it requires high-pressure tanks or conversion to liquid form, which can increase costs and risks.
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Infrastructure Development: The current fueling infrastructure for hydrogen is limited compared to that for petrol, necessitating significant investment for widespread use.