a. A natural gas-fired power station generates electricity by reacting gaseous methane (CH₄) with oxygen - VCE - SSCE Chemistry - Question 6 - 2003 - Paper 1
Question 6
a. A natural gas-fired power station generates electricity by reacting gaseous methane (CH₄) with oxygen. List, in order, the energy conversions that take place in t... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:a. A natural gas-fired power station generates electricity by reacting gaseous methane (CH₄) with oxygen - VCE - SSCE Chemistry - Question 6 - 2003 - Paper 1
Step 1
List, in order, the energy conversions that take place in the power station during this process.
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Answer
Chemical energy (from methane) is converted into thermal energy by combustion.
Thermal energy is then transformed into mechanical energy through gas expansion.
This mechanical energy produces kinetic energy in the turbine or generator.
Finally, kinetic energy is converted into electrical energy, which is distributed as electricity.
Step 2
Give one reason for this difference.
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Answer
More energy is lost in a greater than one-stage process due to inefficiencies in combustion and heat conversion.
Step 3
State one factor that limits the widespread applications of fuel cells to generate electricity.
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Answer
The higher cost of fuel cells compared to traditional energy generation methods.
