Question

When double bonds are hydrogenated, the process of H, addition is some- what exothermic. Does hydrogenation therefore increase or decrease the heat energy obtained when the biofuel eventually is burned? Is this an advantage or a disadvantage?

Answer 1

Hydrogenation of double bonds in biofuels is exothermic, resulting in less energy content in the hydrogenated fuel compared to the unsaturated original. While this might reduce the energy efficiency when burned, it could improve stability for storage and handling.

Step-by-step explanation:

When double bonds are hydrogenated, the process is somewhat exothermic, which means that it releases energy. In the context of biofuels, hydrogenation converts double bonds to single bonds, typically using a catalyst like nickel or platinum. The process adds hydrogen atoms to the molecules, increasing the saturation of the fuel. This exothermic reaction releases heat, which means that the hydrogenated biofuel contains somewhat less energy than the original unsaturated biofuel.

Consequently, the heat energy obtained when the hydrogenated biofuel is burned will be less than that of the unsaturated biofuel. This could be deemed a disadvantage, as the energy content of fuel is a crucial factor in determining its efficiency and performance as a source of energy. However, hydrogenation may improve certain physical properties of the biofuel, such as stability, which could be beneficial for storage and handling.