Question

The fuel used in a steam engine is

• A. water
• B. carbon dioxide
• C. carbon monoxide
• D. none of these.

Answer 1

The correct option is D

none of these.

Explanation for the correct option:

D: None of these

1. In a steam engine, coal is burnt to heat up the boiler to produce steam.
2. This steam is then mechanically utilized to push or pull a cart or a wagon.
3. So, the fuel used in a steam engine is coal, which is not mentioned in any of the four options.

Explanation for the incorrect option:

A: Water

1. A fuel is a substance that, when undergoes combustion, produces heat that is enough to be utilized for several daily life activities, both domestic and industrial, that require heat (energy) as an essential “part” of these activities.
2. Water can not undergo combustion and thus can not burn to produce heat.
3. Hence, water is no fuel, and therefore, this option is incorrect.

B: Carbon dioxide

1. Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas and is one of the major and important constituents of air.
2. It is a by-product of combustion. Whenever there is a combustion reaction, carbon dioxide is produced.
3. It can not undergo combustion rather its physical property is such that it is used as a fire extinguisher.
4. Hence, carbon dioxide is also not a fuel, and therefore, this option is incorrect.

C: Carbon monoxide

1. Carbon monoxide is also a greenhouse gas. However, it is not one of the major constituents of air.
2. It is also a by-product of combustion under the conditions of less supply of oxygen.
3. It also can not undergo combustion.
4. Hence, carbon monoxide is also not fuel, and therefore, this option is also incorrect.

Hence, option D is the correct option.