An investigation to find out which alcohol is the best fuel
Plan
I am going to set up an experiment to find out which alcohol makes the best fuel out of Methanol, Ethanol, Propanol and Butanol.
Apparatus
The equipment I am going to use to carry out this investigation is:
- Stand and Clamp
- Copper Beaker
- Thermometer
- Measuring Cylinder
- Alcohol Burners
- Bunsen Burner
- Electrical Balance
- Stop Watch
Diagram
Method
Firstly I will set up the equipment as shown in the diagram. I will then choose one spirit burner out of Methanol, Ethanol, Propanol or Butanol. I will then weigh the spirit burner on the electrical balance and note down the weight in grams (g). Then I will get the copper beaker and weigh it on the balance and note it down. I will also measure the height of the copper beaker above the bench I am working on. Using the measuring cylinder I will measure out 50ml of water, then pour this into the copper beaker. Then I will measure the temperature of the water using my thermometer. I will then light the spirit burner and measure the size of the flame on it, and note that down in my results. I will put the copper beaker firmly fixed into the clamp on the stand, and place the thermometer into the water in the copper beaker. I will then place the spirit burner directly underneath the copper beaker, making sure the tip of the flame touches it, so that the heat does not go up the side of the beaker. I will start the stopwatch, and wait for the temperature of the water to increase by 60’C, then stop the stopwatch and blow out the burner. Then I will weigh the spirit burner again on the electrical balance and note it down in my results.
