Kerosene

5 marks · Hard

Kerosene is an important hydrocarbon fraction obtained from crude oil. It is commonly used in different everyday situations.

(a)

State one use of kerosene in transport.

[1 mark]

(b)

State one use of kerosene in the home.

[1 mark]

(c)

Describe another use of kerosene, not related to transport or the home.

[1 mark]

(d)

For one of the uses you have stated, explain briefly why kerosene is suitable for that purpose.

[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.

Show answer

(a) Fuel for jet aircraft (aviation fuel)

(b) Domestic heating oil or 'paraffin' for heaters/lamps

(d) For example: Kerosene is suitable as an aircraft fuel because it has a high energy content and does not freeze at cruising altitudes; or, suitable for heating/lighting as it burns with a clean enough flame and is readily available.

Common mistakes: Stating generic uses not found in the syllabus/content; Repeating uses; Not explaining suitability in part d

Show mark scheme and worked solution

Marking points

B1 (a) · 1 mark · Fuel for jet aircraft or aviation fuel stated as a transport use for kerosene.

B2 (b) · 1 mark · Home use stated—e.g. domestic heating oil or fuel for heaters/lamps/paraffin.

B3 (c) · 1 mark · A third use not directly in transport or home (e.g. fuel for lamps in public places, industrial burners, portable stoves).

M1 (d) · 1 mark · One correct reason for the suitability of kerosene for the named use (e.g. energy content, physical properties, availability).

A1 (d) · 1 mark · Development of explanation with detail or a second correct point (e.g. relates property to use, such as non-freezing at high altitude for aircraft).

Worked solution

a. One transport use is as fuel for jet aircraft (aviation fuel).

b. In the home, kerosene is used as domestic heating oil or as paraffin for small heaters/lamps.

c. Another use: kerosene is used as fuel for lamps (e.g., street lamps, camping) or in small stoves (away from transport or domestic heating).

d. Kerosene is suitable as aviation fuel because it has a high energy content and remains liquid at low temperatures, which is important for use in jet engines at high altitude.