Question

Which is the best type of coal ?

• A. Peat
• B. Lignite
• C. Anthracite
• D. Bituminous

Hint:

Remember the order of coal quality with the acronym PLBA: Peat (worst) \(\rightarrow\) Lignite \(\rightarrow\) Bituminous \(\rightarrow\) Anthracite (best).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Coal is a fossil fuel and is classified into different types or ranks based on its carbon content, moisture content, and calorific value (heat-producing ability). The "best" type of coal is the one with the highest carbon content and highest energy output.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The ranks of coal from lowest to highest quality are: \begin{enumerate} \item Peat: This is the earliest stage in coal formation. It has a low carbon content (less than 60%), high moisture, and a low calorific value. \item Lignite (Brown Coal): This is a soft, low-grade coal with about 60-70% carbon content. \item Bituminous Coal: This is a widely used type of coal with a carbon content of 70-86%. It has a high calorific value and is used for power generation and making coke for the steel industry. \item Anthracite: This is the highest rank of coal. It is hard, brittle, and has the highest carbon content (86-97%) and the highest calorific value. It burns with a short, blue flame and produces very little smoke. \end{enumerate} Since Anthracite has the highest carbon content and energy density, it is considered the best type of coal.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Anthracite is the best type of coal.