What is Fuel? Basic Elements of Fuel | New Topic [2024]

In this note, we are going to know about What is Fuel? and What are the Basic Elements of Fuel . Welcome to Poly Notes Hub, a leading destination for engineering notes for diploma and degree engineering students.

Author: Arun Paul.

What is Fuel?

Definition of Fuel: Fuel is defined as a combustible substance which, on proper burning, gives a large amount of heat that can be used economically for domestic and industrial purposes. Examples include coal, petroleum, natural gas, coke, petrol, and water gas.

Main Constituents of Fuel: The main constituents of fuel are carbon and hydrogen. During combustion, carbon and hydrogen burn to give carbon dioxide and water, respectively, with heat being produced.

Basic Elements of Fuel

The basic elements of fuel are:

1. Carbon (C): It is the primary component of most fuels. It combines with oxygen during combustion to produce carbon dioxide (CO₂) and release heat.
2. Hydrogen (H): This component is present in many fuels, especially hydrocarbons. It combines with oxygen during combustion to form water (H₂O) and release heat.
3. Oxygen (O): It may be present in some fuels but not in significant quantities for combustion.
4. Sulfur (S): It is present in small amounts in some fuels, particularly coal and petroleum. It combines with oxygen to produce sulfur dioxide (SO₂), which can contribute to pollution.
5. Nitrogen (N): This component is found in traces in fuels. It does not contribute to combustion but can form nitrogen oxides (NOx) during burning, contributing to air pollution.