Petroleum-based fuels are __ and float on water.

Prepare for the Ben Hirst Firefighter 2 Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, with hints and explanations for each query. Ensure success in your exam!

Multiple Choice

Petroleum-based fuels are __ and float on water.

Explanation:
Petroleum-based fuels are hydrocarbons, meaning they are organic compounds made up of hydrogen and carbon. This makes them largely nonpolar, so they do not dissolve in water. In addition, most hydrocarbon fuels have a density lower than that of water, so they float on the surface rather than mixing with it. This combination explains why spills form a slick on top of the water. They’re not inorganic substances, not polar solvents, and not polymers—the fuels used are typically small to medium hydrocarbon molecules, like those found in gasoline, diesel, and kerosene.

Petroleum-based fuels are hydrocarbons, meaning they are organic compounds made up of hydrogen and carbon. This makes them largely nonpolar, so they do not dissolve in water. In addition, most hydrocarbon fuels have a density lower than that of water, so they float on the surface rather than mixing with it. This combination explains why spills form a slick on top of the water. They’re not inorganic substances, not polar solvents, and not polymers—the fuels used are typically small to medium hydrocarbon molecules, like those found in gasoline, diesel, and kerosene.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy