Question

Instead of using biomass directly as fuel, it is always advantageous to use biogas produced from biomass.
a) What do you mean by biomass?
b) What are the advantages of using biogas as fuel?

Answer 1

$\left(a\right)$ The dead parts of plants and trees as well as the waste materials of animals are called biomass. It is the organic matter which is used as a fuel to produce energy. Examples of biomass are cow dung cake, dry leaves, firewood, animal excreta, vegetable wastes and weeds. Biomass is a renewable source of energy because it can be produced again as it is obtained from plants or animals.
$\left(b\right)$ The advantages of using biogas as fuel are:

• Household wastes and biowastes can be disposed off usefully and in a healthy manner.
• Reduces the use of wood and in a way prevents deforestation.
• The slurry from a biogas plant serves as manure.
• Biogas burns without smoke and hence does not cause air pollution.
• It produces a large amount of heat per unit mass.
• It burns completely without leaving any residue. It is a clean fuel.
• It is cheaper than most common fuels.
• It is a good domestic fuel.