The origin of crude oil
4 marks · NormalBurning fuels from crude oil can cause environmental problems. Answer all parts.
State one pollutant formed when sulfur-containing hydrocarbons are burned.
Describe how this pollutant can harm the environment.
Suggest one method to reduce the formation of this pollutant.
Explain why replacing large hydrocarbon fuels with smaller ones can reduce air pollution.
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(a) Sulfur dioxide (SO2) · must show Sulfur dioxide, SO2
(b) Forms acid rain which can damage plants, aquatic life, or buildings. · must show acid rain, damages the environment
(c) Remove sulfur from fuels before use / use low-sulfur fuels / use sulfur scrubbers in chimneys. · must show remove sulfur, low-sulfur fuels, scrubbers
(d) Smaller hydrocarbons burn more easily and completely, producing fewer pollutants and less air pollution. · must show burn more easily/completely, produce fewer pollutants
Show mark scheme and worked solution
Marking points
B1 (a) · 1 mark · Identifies sulfur dioxide (SO2) as a pollutant.
B2 (b) · 1 mark · Describes a harm caused by acid rain.
B3 (c) · 1 mark · Suggests an appropriate method for reduction (e.g. removing sulfur from fuel).
B4 (d) · 1 mark · Explains how replacing with smaller hydrocarbons reduces pollution.
Worked solution
a) Sulfur dioxide (SO2).
b) SO2 causes acid rain which damages the environment.
c) Remove sulfur from the fuel before use, or use low-sulfur fuels.
d) Smaller hydrocarbons burn more completely, making fewer harmful gases, so air pollution is reduced.