What Is A Fuel?

key notes :

Definition of Fuel:

  • A fuel is any substance that, when burned, produces energy in the form of heat or light.

Types of Fuel:

  • Solid Fuels: Examples include coal, wood, and biomass.
  • Liquid Fuels: Examples include petrol, diesel, and kerosene.
  • Gaseous Fuels: Examples include natural gas, LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas), and biogas.

Uses of Fuel:

  • Fuels are used in various sectors, such as:
    • Domestic: For cooking and heating (e.g., LPG, firewood).
    • Transport: To power vehicles (e.g., petrol, diesel).
    • Industrial: For running machines and generating electricity (e.g., coal, natural gas).

Characteristics of an Ideal Fuel:

  • High calorific value (produces a lot of energy).
  • Easy to store and transport.
  • Burns cleanly with minimal pollution.
  • Readily available and cost-effective.

Calorific Value:

  • The calorific value of a fuel is the amount of heat energy produced when one kilogram of the fuel is completely burned.

Examples of Fuels:

  • Renewable fuels: Biogas, ethanol.
  • Non-renewable fuels: Coal, petrol, natural gas.

Environmental Impact:

  • Burning fuels releases greenhouse gases (e.g., carbon dioxide), contributing to global warming.
  • Excessive use can lead to resource depletion and pollution.

Conservation of Fuels:

  • Use fuel-efficient appliances.
  • Opt for public transport or carpooling.
  • Develop and use renewable energy sources like solar and wind.

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