Question

Household fuel (LPG) mainly contains: (a) \(\mathrm{CH}_{4}\) (b) \(\mathrm{C}_{2} \mathrm{H}_{2}\) (c) \(\mathrm{C}_{2} \mathrm{H}_{4}\) (d) \(\mathrm{C}_{4} \mathrm{H}_{10}\)

Short answer

The main component of LPG from the options is (d) C_4H_{10}.

Step-by-step solution

Understand LPG

Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) is a common household fuel used for cooking and heating. It is a mixture of light hydrocarbons. We need to identify which of these options is the main component of LPG.

Examine the Options

Consider the given options: (a) Methane (CH_4), which is a primary component of natural gas; (b) Acetylene (C_2H_2), used in welding torches; (c) Ethylene (C_2H_4), often used in the production of plastics; and (d) Butane (C_4H_{10}), which is commonly used in LPG along with propane.

Identify Common LPG Components

LPG mainly contains propane (C_3H_8) and butane (C_4H_{10}). Reviewing the options, we find that butane (C_4H_{10}) is listed as option (d).

Confirm the Answer

Since butane is one of the primary components of LPG, option (d) C_4H_{10}, is the correct answer. There are no other LPG components among the other options.

Key concepts

Components of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG)

Liquefied Petroleum Gas, commonly known as LPG, is a popular household fuel that powers stoves and heating appliances in many homes worldwide. It is not a single chemical substance but a mixture of several light hydrocarbons. The main components of LPG are propane and butane. These substances are both gases at room temperature but are stored in pressurized containers as liquids for convenience.

When released from the container, they turn back into gas, which is why LPG is termed 'liquefied'. Importantly, the proportions of propane and butane in LPG can vary based on the source and the intended use. Propane generally has a lower boiling point than butane, making it more suitable in colder climates. Butane, on the other hand, is often preferred in environments where it's not as cold, as it's more efficient and has a higher energy content. Therefore, understanding the key components of LPG allows consumers to appreciate how this versatile and widely used fuel is tailored to different needs.

Chemical Composition of Fuels

The chemical composition of fuels like LPG is crucial in determining their properties, efficiency, and applications. Chemical composition refers to the types of atoms and their arrangement in a molecule. For LPG, the primary components are hydrocarbons consisting of hydrogen and carbon atoms. This composition affects how the fuel burns, releasing energy.

Hydrocarbons, like propane (C₃H₈) and butane (C₄H₁₀), have high energy content due to the strong chemical bonds between their carbon and hydrogen atoms. During combustion, these bonds break, releasing energy, which is harnessed for heating or cooking.

Fuels with a high hydrogen content, such as LPG, tend to burn cleanly, producing less soot. This clean-burning nature makes LPG a preferred fuel for indoor use, as it minimizes the release of pollutants compared to other carbon-rich fuels. Understanding the fundamental chemical composition of fuels helps in choosing the right kind of fuel for specific applications.

Butane in Household Fuels

Butane, a significant component of LPG, plays a vital role in the realm of household fuels. It is an alkane with the formula C₄H₁₀ and is easily liquefied, which makes it convenient for transportation and storage. Butane is particularly favored for its efficiency and the high energy content it provides.

In household applications, butane-rich LPG offers a steady and controllable flame, which is perfect for cooking. Its properties mean that appliances using butane are typically easy to ignite and adjust, offering users flexibility in control.

Despite butane's advantages, it does have a higher boiling point compared to propane, which can be a limitation in colder climates as it will not vaporize as readily as propane. Yet, in temperate environments, butane is cost-effective and provides excellent performance. This is why, in many regions, the blend of LPG components is adjusted to suit the climate, ensuring optimal use of butane in household fuels.