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Fractional distillation is used to separate crude oil into fractions - Edexcel - GCSE Chemistry - Question 1 - 2012 - Paper 1
Question 1
Fractional distillation is used to separate crude oil into fractions. A fractionating column is used for the process. The diagram shows a fractionating column and th... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Fractional distillation is used to separate crude oil into fractions - Edexcel - GCSE Chemistry - Question 1 - 2012 - Paper 1
Step 1
Which of the following statements is true?
Answer
To determine which statement is true, we analyze each option:
- Option A: Fuel oil has a higher boiling point than petrol. Therefore, this statement is false.
- Option B: Kerosene is indeed more viscous than petrol. This statement is true and hence, the correct option.
- Option C: Diesel molecules are generally larger than petrol molecules, making this statement true.
- Option D: Diesel oil requires a higher temperature to ignite compared to petrol, so this statement is false.
Thus, the correct answer is B.
Step 2
Explain what is meant by cracking.
Answer
Cracking is a process used in the petroleum industry where larger hydrocarbon molecules are broken down into smaller, more useful molecules, typically alkenes and alkanes. This is achieved through thermal cracking or catalytic cracking, which involves the application of heat and pressure, or the introduction of catalysts.
The purpose of cracking is to convert heavy, less desirable fractions of crude oil, such as long-chain hydrocarbons, into lighter, more valuable products, such as gasoline and alkenes that can be used in the production of plastics and other chemicals.