Coal Gas

The correct answer is (c). Coal gas is a combustible gas mixture produced by heating coal in the absence of air, through a process called coal gasification.

The correct answer is (d). While oxygen is involved in the combustion of coal gas, it is not a major component of the gas mixture itself.

The correct answer is (b). Coal gas was a dominant fuel source during this period, powering industries and providing illumination for homes.

The correct answer is (c). While coal gasification can reduce emissions compared to direct combustion, it does not achieve zero emissions.

The correct answer is (c). Coal gasification requires significant investments, making it less cost-effective compared to other energy sources in some cases.

Here's a possible summary of coal gasification for the investors:

Coal Gasification: A Potential Path to Cleaner Energy

Advantages:

| Advantage | Description | |---|---| | Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions | Compared to traditional coal combustion, coal gasification significantly lowers carbon dioxide emissions. | | Production of Synthetic Fuels | Coal gas can be used to create cleaner transportation fuels like methanol and diesel. | | Hydrogen Production | Coal gas can be a source for hydrogen, a clean energy carrier, contributing to a hydrogen economy. |

Disadvantages:

| Disadvantage | Description | |---|---| | Energy Efficiency | The gasification process requires significant energy input, potentially impacting overall efficiency. | | Cost-effectiveness | The technology requires substantial investment, making it less competitive with cheaper energy sources. | | Environmental Concerns | While cleaner than direct coal burning, coal gasification still releases pollutants like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, requiring advanced capture technologies. |

Potential Applications:

1. Power Generation: Coal gas can be burned in gas turbines for electricity production with lower emissions than traditional coal-fired power plants.
2. Transportation Fuels: Coal gas can be converted into synthetic fuels like methanol and diesel, potentially reducing dependence on fossil fuels in the transportation sector.
3. Hydrogen Economy: Coal gas can serve as a source for hydrogen production, contributing to a hydrogen-based energy system.

Environmental Impact:

While coal gasification offers a cleaner alternative to direct coal combustion, it is not without environmental concerns. While reducing carbon dioxide emissions, the process still releases other pollutants like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides. These emissions require advanced capture technologies and careful management to mitigate their impact. Further research and development are crucial to minimize environmental impact and optimize the technology's potential.