What happens when coal is heated in air?a)Produces water vaporb)Produc...
When coal is heated in air, it burns and produces mainly carbon dioxide gas.
What happens when coal is heated in air?a)Produces water vaporb)Produc...
Understanding Coal Combustion
When coal is heated in the presence of air, it undergoes a chemical reaction known as combustion. This process primarily produces carbon dioxide as a result of burning carbon content found in coal.
What Happens During Combustion?
- Heat and Air Reaction: When coal is heated, it reacts with oxygen from the air.
- Carbon to Carbon Dioxide: The carbon in the coal combines with oxygen to form carbon dioxide (CO2).
- Energy Release: This reaction releases a significant amount of energy in the form of heat and light, making coal a valuable fuel source.
Why Carbon Dioxide is the Main Product?
- Chemical Composition: Coal is primarily composed of carbon, along with some hydrogen, sulfur, and other elements. The combustion process favors the formation of carbon dioxide due to the abundance of oxygen in the air.
- Environmental Impact: The release of carbon dioxide contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, which is a concern for climate change.
What About Other Options?
- Water Vapor: While water vapor can be produced during combustion (especially from hydrogen in coal), it is not the primary product.
- Oxygen and Nitrogen: Oxygen is consumed during combustion, and nitrogen, although present in the air, does not react significantly with coal at combustion temperatures.
In conclusion, when coal is heated in air, the main product formed is carbon dioxide, making option 'B' the correct answer. Understanding this process is crucial for recognizing the environmental implications of coal usage.
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