Practicing Success

Target Exam

CUET

Subject

General Test

Chapter

General Knowledge

Topic

Chemistry

Question:

Which products are obtained from the destructive distillation of coal? 

Options:

Coal tar

Coke 

Coal gas

All of the above 

Correct Answer:

All of the above 

Explanation:

The correct answer is option 4. All of the above.

Destructive distillation is a process in which organic materials, such as coal, are heated in the absence of air, leading to the breakdown of complex organic compounds into simpler substances. In the case of coal, this process results in the production of several valuable byproducts. Here's an explanation of the products obtained from the destructive distillation of coal:

1. Coal Tar:

Coal tar is a thick, black liquid obtained from the distillation of coal. It is a complex mixture of various organic compounds, including aromatic hydrocarbons, phenols, and heterocyclic compounds. Coal tar has numerous industrial applications, such as the production of chemicals, dyes, and medicinal products.

2. Coke:

Coke is a solid carbonaceous material obtained by heating coal in the absence of air. It is a porous, grayish-black substance and is mainly composed of carbon. Coke is a crucial material in the production of iron and steel in the form of blast furnace coke. It provides the necessary heat and reducing agents in the iron-smelting process.

3. Coal Gas:

Coal gas is a mixture of gases produced by the destructive distillation of coal. It typically contains methane, carbon monoxide, hydrogen, and other gases. Historically, coal gas was used for lighting and heating before natural gas became widely available. It was also used as a fuel for industrial processes.

These products obtained from the destructive distillation of coal are important in various industries and have played significant roles in the development of the chemical and metallurgical sectors.