Energy and Fuels

Energy and Fuels

1. Fuels provide ENERGY - but there are consequences

   • Burning fuels
     • Release co2
     • Global Warming
     • Climate Change
   • Crude Oil is running out
     • Fuels like diesel and petrol will become more expensive
     • Big economic effect
     • Everything transported by lorry, train or plane gets more expensive

2. Fuel energy is calculated using calorimetry

   • Different fuels produce different amounts of energy
   • Measure energy release =burn the fuel and use the flame to heat up water
     • Method
       • 1) Put 50g of water in the copper can and record its temperature
         • 2) Weigh the spirit burner and lid
           • 3) Put the spirit burner underneath the can, and light the wick. Heat water, stiring constantly, until the temp reaches about 50'C
             • 4) Put out the flame using the burner lid, and measure the final temperature of the water
               • Re-weight the spirit burner and lid
                 • So we're measuring:
                   • Mass of spirit burner & lid. Before & After
                   • Temp of water. Before & After
                   • ENERGY TRANS=MASS OF WATER X SPECIFIC HEAT CAPACITY OF WATER X TEMP CHANGE
   • Calorimetry uses a GLASS or METAL CONTAINER (usually copper)