Q. In the context of coal gasification, which of the following statements are correct?
1.It is the process of converting coal into natural gas.
2.Methane is the primary gas produced through coal gasification.
3.It is one of the water-intensive modes of energy generation.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
Explanation –
Statements 1 and 3 are correct. Coal gasification is a process that involves converting coal into a gaseous mixture, often referred to as synthesis gas or syngas. This process occurs by subjecting coal to high temperatures and pressure in the presence of steam and controlled amounts of oxygen. The resulting syngas is primarily composed of hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and some methane, along with smaller amounts of other gases. The gasification process requires significant amounts of water for various purposes, including steam production, cooling, and gas cleaning. The water intensity of coal gasification is a concern in regions where water resources are scarce or stressed, as it can exacerbate water scarcity issues and contribute to increased competition for water resources among different sectors.
Statement 2 is incorrect. While coal gasification produces methane as part of the syngas mixture, it is not the primary gas produced. The main components of the syngas are hydrogen and carbon monoxide, which can then be further processed or used in various applications, such as producing synthetic fuels, generating electricity, or manufacturing chemicals.
Source: Forum IAS
