Question

The equation that represents ‘coal gasification’ is:

• A. \( CO(g) + H_2O(g) \xrightarrow{673 \, K} CO_2(g) + H_2(g) \, ({catalyst}) \)
• B. \( C(s) + H_2O(g) \xrightarrow{1270 \, K} CO(g) + H_2(g) \)
• C. \( 2C(s) + O_2(g) \xrightarrow{1273 \, K} 2CO(g) + 4N_2(g) \)
• D. \( CH_4(g) \xrightarrow{1270 \, K} CO(g) + 3H_2(g) \, ({Ni}) \)

Hint:

In coal gasification, carbon reacts with steam to produce carbon monoxide and hydrogen at elevated temperatures. The catalyst is typically used in some reactions, but not in the standard gasification process.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Coal gasification refers to the process of converting coal into a gaseous mixture known as "coal gas" by reacting it with water vapor at high temperatures. The main chemical reaction involved in coal gasification is the conversion of carbon (in coal) with steam to produce carbon monoxide and hydrogen. The reaction can be written as: \[ C(s) + H_2O(g) \xrightarrow{1270 \, K} CO(g) + H_2(g). \] This reaction takes place at high temperatures (typically around 1270 K), which leads to the formation of CO and H2 gases. 
This is the correct reaction for coal gasification.