What is a major source of atmospheric pollutants
Combustion of fuels is a major source of atmospheric pollutants
what do most fuels contain
Most fuels ( including coal) contain:
-carbon
-and/or hydrogen
-and may also contain some sulfur
What gases are released into the atmosphere at high temperatures
-carbon dioxide, water (vapour), carbon monoxide, and oxides of nitrogen (which are formed at high temperatures)
-Solid particles and unburned hydrocarbons may also be released, forming particulates in the atmosphere
What is incomplete combustion and what gases are released when this happens
-If there’s not enough oxygen, some of the fuel doesn’t burn – this is partial/incomplete combustion.
-Here, solid particles of soot (carbon), carbon monoxide and unburnt fuel are released
Describe how combustion releases energy and also forms carbon dioxide and water
-The combustion of hydrocarbons releases energy.
-During combustion, the carbon and hydrogen in the fuels are oxidised to form carbon dioxide and water