Question

What is the number of carbon atoms in alkanes found in diesel?

• A. $\mathrm{C_{29}}$ to $\mathrm{C_{31}}$
• B. $\mathrm{C_{6}}$ to $\mathrm{C_{8}}$
• C. $\mathrm{C_{1}}$ to $\mathrm{C_{4}}$
• D. $\mathrm{C_{15}}$ to $\mathrm{C_{18}}$

Hint:

As carbon chain length increases, boiling point increases, which is why diesel is heavier than petrol.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Composition of diesel.
Diesel is a petroleum fraction consisting mainly of higher alkanes compared to petrol.

Step 2: Carbon chain length.
The hydrocarbons present in diesel generally contain carbon atoms ranging from 15 to 18.

Step 3: Conclusion.
Therefore, alkanes found in diesel lie in the range $\mathrm{C_{15}$ to $\mathrm{C_{18}}$}.