Which one of the following has the highest fuel value?
A
Hydrogen
B
Charcoal
C
Natural Gas
D
Gasoline
Correct Answer: Option A
Explanation
1. Fuel value, or calorific value, refers to the amount of energy released per unit mass (or sometimes per unit volume) when a substance undergoes complete combustion.
2. Comparing the approximate higher heating values per unit mass for the given options:
- Hydrogen (H2): ~142 MJ/kg
- Charcoal (largely Carbon): ~30 MJ/kg
- Natural Gas (mainly Methane, CH4): ~55 MJ/kg
- Gasoline (complex hydrocarbon mixture): ~46 MJ/kg
3. Based on these values, Hydrogen has the highest fuel value per unit mass among the choices provided.