Comparing the two methods of producing ethanol
3 marks · EasyThe two main methods of producing ethanol industrially are by fermentation and by the hydration of ethene.
State one reason why fermentation is considered more sustainable than hydration of ethene.
Describe one disadvantage of using fermentation to produce ethanol.
Give one reason why hydration of ethene is more efficient than fermentation.
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(a) Fermentation uses renewable resources (like sugar cane/starch/sugar beet).
(b) Fermentation is slow/inefficient OR produces impure ethanol OR requires further processing.
(c) Hydration is a continuous flow process (more efficient) OR produces purer ethanol OR works much faster.
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Marking points
B1a (a) · 1 mark · States an appropriate reason for sustainability (e.g. uses renewable resources for fermentation).
B1b (b) · 1 mark · Describes any valid disadvantage of fermentation (e.g. slow process, batch process, impure ethanol).
B1c (c) · 1 mark · Gives a valid reason why hydration is more efficient (e.g. continuous flow process, faster rate, higher purity).
Worked solution
(a) Fermentation uses renewable resources, such as sugar from crops.
(b) Fermentation is a slow, batch process and produces impure ethanol.
(c) Hydration is a continuous, fast process that yields purer ethanol.