Coal

Coal is a natural fossil fuel that is formed from the remains of ancient vegetation and is primarily composed of carbon. It is one of the most abundant sources of energy and has been used for centuries for heating and generating electricity.

Formation of Coal

Coal is formed from the remains of plants that lived and died millions of years ago. The process of coal formation begins with the accumulation of plant debris in swamps and marshes. Over time, the plant material is buried by sediment and undergoes physical and chemical changes as a result of pressure and heat. This process, known as coalification, transforms the plant material into different types of coal, such as lignite, bituminous, and anthracite.

Types of Coal

• Lignite: Also known as brown coal, lignite is the lowest rank of coal and has the highest moisture content. It is often used in power plants for electricity generation.
• Bituminous: Bituminous coal is a middle rank coal and is widely used for electricity generation and as a fuel for industrial applications.
• Anthracite: This is the highest rank of coal and has the highest carbon content and the lowest moisture content. It is used primarily for heating and in the steelmaking industry.

Uses of Coal

Coal has various uses, including:

• Electricity generation
• Heating and cooking
• Industrial processes, such as steel production
• Chemical production, including the manufacturing of synthetic materials

Environmental Impact

While coal has been a significant source of energy, its use has raised concerns about environmental impact. The burning of coal releases pollutants such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and carbon dioxide, contributing to air and water pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

Study Guide

Here are some key points to remember about coal:

1. Describe the process of coal formation and the different types of coal that are produced.
2. Explain the uses of coal in various industries and its historical significance as an energy source.
3. Discuss the environmental impact of coal use and the efforts to mitigate its negative effects.
4. Compare and contrast the different types of coal in terms of their energy content and applications.

[Coal] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

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• Energy: Forms and ChangesScience • Seventh Grade