Question

There are two important fuels A and B both of which are extracted from deep inside the earth. Fuel A is a thick, dark, foul smelling liquid whereas fuel B is a black solid. Combustion of both the fuels produces products, C, D, E and F. The product C makes the rainwater only slightly acidic but it is mainly responsible for causing global warming. The product D is neither acidic nor basic. It is harmless and does not affect the environment in any way. Both E and F attack breathing system of humans and are mainly responsible for causing acid rain. In addition to combustion of fuels A and B, the product F is also formed when lightning occurs in the sky.
(a) What are (i) fuel A, and (ii) fuel B?
(b) Name (i) C (ii) D (iii) E, and (iv) F
(c) What is the process of formation of F during lightning known as?
(d) Which fuel is supposed to be exhausted sooner : A or B?
(e) Which fuel is mostly used for generating electricity at thermal power plants?

Answer 1

(a) (i) Fuel A is petroleum and (ii) fuel B is coal.

(b) (i) C is carbon dioxide, (ii) D is water, (iii) E is sulphur dioxide and (iv) F is nitrogen oxide.

(c) The process of formation of F during lightning is known as natural nitrogen fixation.

(d) Fuel A is supposed to be exhausted sooner.

(e) Fuel B, i.e. coal, is mostly used for generating electricity at thermal power plants.