Problem 9 - A Complete Resource Book in Chemistry for JEE Main

Question

Household fuel (LPG) mainly contains (a) \(\mathrm{CH}_{4}\) (b) \(\mathrm{C}_{2} \mathrm{H}_{2}\) (c) \(\mathrm{C}_{2} \mathrm{H}_{4}\) (d) \(\mathrm{C}_{4} \mathrm{H}_{10}\)

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The main component of LPG is \(\mathrm{C}_{4}\mathrm{H}_{10}\) .

Step 1: Understanding the Components of LPG

Liquefied Petroleum Gas, or LPG, is a mixture of hydrocarbon gases used as fuel. Knowing the primary components of LPG will help us identify the main element present in it.

Step 2: Identifying Main Components of LPG

LPG primarily consists of propane (\(\mathrm{C}_{3}\mathrm{H}_{8}\)) and butane (\(\mathrm{C}_{4}\mathrm{H}_{10}\)). It is important to note that methane (\(\mathrm{CH}_{4}\)), ethylene (\(\mathrm{C}_{2}\mathrm{H}_{4}\)), and acetylene (\(\mathrm{C}_{2}\mathrm{H}_{2}\)) are not typical components of LPG.

Step 3: Selecting the Correct Answer

Given the options, option (d) \(\mathrm{C}_{4}\mathrm{H}_{10}\), which is butane, is indeed a component of LPG. Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer.

Key Concepts

Hydrocarbon Gases

Hydrocarbon gases are organic compounds that primarily consist of carbon and hydrogen atoms. These gases can exist in a variety of forms, including alkanes, alkenes, and alkynes. Among these, alkanes are the most common in daily applications due to their stability and energy efficiency.

In the context of LPG, hydrocarbon gases play a crucial role. LPG itself is composed of a mix of hydrocarbon gases. The main components are propane and butane, which belong to the alkane category. They are preferred because they are easily liquified under pressure, which makes storage and transportation convenient.

Hydrocarbon gases are vital because they provide a clean-burning energy source compared to other fossil fuels. They release fewer pollutants when combusted, which is why LPG is popular for household and industrial use. Understanding the nature of these gases helps in identifying their applications and advantages.

Propane

Propane is a type of hydrocarbon gas that forms a significant component of LPG. The chemical formula for propane is \(\mathrm{C}_{3}\mathrm{H}_{8} \), indicating that it has three carbon atoms and eight hydrogen atoms. Propane is a colorless and odorless gas that is easily condensed into a liquid at moderate pressure.

It is especially valued as a fuel because of its energy-rich composition. When burned, propane can produce a substantial amount of heat, making it ideal for heating, cooking, and powering engines. Its efficiency and clean-burning nature are the reasons for its widespread usage in homes as well as in commercial settings.

Propane is also notable for its versatility. It can be used alone or blended with other hydrocarbon gases, such as butane, to form LPG. This flexibility allows it to be adapted for various applications based on the specific needs of the user. Recognizing propane's role and properties is key to understanding its significance in fuel consumption.

Butane

Butane is another significant hydrocarbon gas component of LPG, with the chemical formula \(\mathrm{C}_{4}\mathrm{H}_{10} \). Similar to propane, butane is colorless and odorless in its pure form. However, during LPG production, an odorant is added for safety purposes, allowing leaks to be detected by smell.

Butane is highly valued for its ability to be easily compressed and stored as a liquid. When released from its container, it quickly returns to a gaseous state, making it easy to use for fuel purposes.

It burns cleanly and efficiently, releasing a good amount of energy, which is why it is commonly used in lighters, portable stoves, and even in the fuel industry as a blend for motor fuels. Butane's properties make it a complementary companion to propane in LPG, expanding the functionality and application of this fuel type across a wide range of uses. By understanding the role of butane, one can appreciate its contribution to the effectiveness of LPG as a household and industrial fuel source.