C9 - Crude Oils and Fuels. Flashcards
What is crude oil?
A thick black liquid made of a large number of compounds mixed together (Hydrocarbons).
Why is crude oil important?
Very important to society and economy as used for fuel for many things.
Why are hydrocarbons used as fuels?
When they react with oxygen the release a lot of energy ( combustion ).
What are the first four alkanes?
Methane, Ethane, Propane, Butane.
What is the molecular formula of an alkane?
CnH2n+2.
What is fractional distillation?
When different hydrocarbons in crude oil are separated into fractions based on their boiling points.
What is the process of fractional distillation?
Crude oil is heated and vapourised. The hydrocarbon gases enter the column and it rises up. It cools down as it does this. When it reaches its boiling point it condenses and then collected.
