Ethanol Production: Advantages and Disadvantages

These flashcards cover the advantages and disadvantages of producing ethanol through fermentation and petroleum refining.

What are the advantages of producing ethanol through fermentation?

It uses renewable resources (sugarcane or corn), produces less pollution compared to fossil fuels, and can contribute to lower greenhouse gas emissions.

What are the disadvantages of producing ethanol through fermentation?

It requires a significant amount of land and resources for crop production, can compete with food production, and has lower energy content compared to gasoline.

What are the advantages of producing ethanol from petroleum refining?

It can be produced quickly in existing infrastructure, has high energy content, and benefits from established technology.

What are the disadvantages of producing ethanol from petroleum refining?

It relies on non-renewable resources (fossil fuels), contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, and is subject to price fluctuations in oil markets.