Energy output of Bioethanol and Industrial Ethanol

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Ken Chen

Energy output of Bioethanol and Industrial Ethanol

Aim

The aim of this investigation is to determine which of the two derivatives of ethanol releases more energy, Bioethanol or Industrial Ethanol.

Hypothesis

The main compound in both alcohols has the same chemical formulae C2H5OH, and the other compounds are unknown therefore the Energy output cannot be calculated exactly by using standard bond enthalpies. However, as the main compound is known and the same for both ethanol’s the energy output should be very similar. Therefore the difference in energy output only depends on the compounds which are blended to the alcohols.

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Apparatus

  • Thermometer
  • Metal can x2
  • Draught shield x4
  • Gloves
  • Safety spectacles
  • Heat-resistant mat
  • Insulation card
  • 100cm3 measuring cylinder x2
  • Spirit burner
  • Clamp stand
  • Balance
  • Matches

Substances

  •  E100 Bioethanol
  •  Industrial Ethanol
  • Water

Method

The idea to do the experiment the way described is due to knowledge from past experiments and the IB textbook.

Follow these steps 10 times, five times for each alcohol.

Step 1: Measure 50cm3 of alcohol in a measuring cylinder

Step 2: Weigh and record the empty spirit burner

Step 3: Fill the 50cm3 of alcohol in the spirit ...

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