Question detail
Why is cracking used in the petroleum industry?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Alkanes
Question
- A. To produce longer chain hydrocarbons.
- B. To convert saturated hydrocarbons into unsaturated hydrocarbons.
- C. To increase the yield of useful shorter chain hydrocarbons.
- D. To remove impurities from crude oil.
Answer
To increase the yield of useful shorter chain hydrocarbons.
Explanation
Cracking is a process used to break down larger, less useful hydrocarbons into shorter, more useful ones. This increases the yield of valuable products like gasoline and other fuels.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Fraction Properties
Students often confuse the relationship between chain length and boiling point, thinking that longer chains always have lower boiling points.
To clarify, remember that as chain length increases, the boiling point generally increases due to stronger van der Waals forces. For example, consider the formula for boiling point trends: longer chains lead to increased surface area, which enhances intermolecular forces. Thus, longer alkanes have higher boiling points. Always relate this to the strength of intermolecular forces.
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