Kerosene
4 marks · NormalThe table below shows different fuel types and some of their typical uses. Study the table and answer the questions that follow.
| Fuel | Typical Use |
|---|---|
| Refinery gas | LPG for heating and cooking |
| Gasoline (petrol) | Fuel for cars |
| Kerosene | ? |
| Diesel | Fuel for lorries and some cars |
a) Complete the table by stating two uses of kerosene. (2 marks)
b) Suggest one reason why kerosene is used as a fuel for jet aircraft, rather than gasoline. (2 marks)
Work this out on paper, then compare with the answer and worked solution below. With a free account you can submit written answers for marking.
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(a) Fuel for jet aircraft (aviation fuel); domestic heating oil OR fuel for small heaters/lamps (paraffin)
(b) Kerosene has a higher flash point, is less volatile, or is safer to handle in large quantities at high altitude; provides more consistent energy release at jet engine operating conditions.
Also accept: aviation fuel; jet fuel; domestic heating oil; paraffin for lamps/heaters
Common mistakes: Mixing up with petrol use or LPG substitutes
Show mark scheme and worked solution
Marking points
B1 · 1 mark · States that kerosene is used as a fuel for jet aircraft (aviation fuel/jet engines).
B2 · 1 mark · States that kerosene is used for domestic heating oil OR for small heaters/lamps ('paraffin').
B3 · 1 mark · Mentions a property of kerosene relevant to jet fuel use (e.g., less volatile than gasoline/high flash point).
B4 · 1 mark · Gives correct explanation such as safer to use in jet engines at high altitude or consistent energy release.
Worked solution
| Fuel | Typical Use |
|---|---|
| Refinery gas | LPG for heating and cooking |
| Gasoline (petrol) | Fuel for cars |
| Kerosene | Fuel for jet aircraft; domestic heating oil |
| Diesel | Fuel for lorries and some cars |
a) Kerosene is used as a fuel for jet aircraft and as domestic heating oil (or as 'paraffin' for small heaters or lamps).
b) Kerosene is less volatile than gasoline (petrol), meaning it is safer to use in jet aircraft, especially at high altitude. It also burns efficiently and provides consistent energy.