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Define calorific value?
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Define calorific value?
**Calorific Value**

Calorific value, also known as heat value or energy value, refers to the amount of energy released during the complete combustion of a substance. It is a measure of the energy content or potential energy stored in a fuel and is typically expressed in units of energy per unit mass or volume, such as joules per kilogram (J/kg) or British thermal units per cubic foot (BTU/cu ft). The calorific value of a fuel is an important parameter as it determines the fuel's efficiency and its ability to generate heat or power.

**Types of Calorific Value**

There are two main types of calorific value:

1. **Gross Calorific Value (GCV):** Also known as higher heating value or gross heat of combustion, GCV measures the total heat released when a fuel is completely burned and the products of combustion are cooled to the reference temperature. It includes the latent heat of vaporization of any water formed during combustion. GCV is typically used for solid and liquid fuels.

2. **Net Calorific Value (NCV):** Also known as lower heating value or net heat of combustion, NCV measures the heat released when a fuel is burned and the products of combustion are cooled to the reference temperature, while subtracting the heat energy carried away by the water vapor formed during combustion. NCV excludes the latent heat of vaporization of water in the combustion products. NCV is commonly used for gaseous fuels.

**Importance of Calorific Value**

The calorific value of a fuel is an essential parameter for various purposes, including:

1. **Energy Conversion:** Calorific value is crucial in determining the energy content of different fuels and their suitability for various applications. It helps in selecting fuels for power generation, heating systems, and industrial processes.

2. **Fuel Efficiency:** Calorific value is related to the fuel efficiency of a combustion process. Fuels with higher calorific values tend to produce more heat or energy per unit mass, leading to higher efficiency in energy conversion.

3. **Fuel Comparison:** Calorific value allows for the comparison of different types of fuels. By comparing the energy content of different fuels, one can make informed decisions regarding fuel selection based on cost-effectiveness and environmental impact.

4. **Emission Control:** Calorific value plays a role in estimating the amount of pollutants generated during combustion. It helps in designing and optimizing combustion systems to meet emissions standards by determining the appropriate fuel-air ratio.

In conclusion, calorific value is a significant parameter to measure the energy content of fuels. It assists in fuel selection, energy conversion, fuel efficiency assessment, and emission control. Understanding the calorific value of different fuels is essential for optimizing energy systems, reducing environmental impact, and ensuring efficient utilization of resources.
Community Answer
Define calorific value?
Answered Apr 23, 2017. Generally calorific values are defined for fuel or foods. Calorific values are defined as energy stored in a fuel/food which can be determined in terms of heatproduced by complete combustion of a specific quantity of the same. It is denoted by J/kg or kJ/kg.
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Define calorific value?
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