Use marked Edexcel IAL Chemistry questions to judge carbon-neutral fuel claims by comparing combustion emissions with biological uptake or captured carbon.
This question is about fuels and polymers. Used coffee grounds have been suggested as a carbon-neutral fuel to replace some fossil fuels.
Explain why coffee grounds might be considered a carbon-neutral fuel. (2)
An explanation that makes reference to the following points:
- the carbon dioxide released when the fuel is used/burnt/combusted (is equal)
(1)
- (to the carbon dioxide that is) used/absorbed/taken in by the plant/during photosynthesis
(1)
Ignore answers relating to fuel burnt on transport affecting carbon neutrality / energy spent on processing and drying
MP1 do not award carbon for carbon dioxide
Marks are independent
Ignore sustainable resource
If no other marks awarded, for 1 mark:
Accept "no net COX2 produced when using coffee grounds as a fuel"
Accept "carbon intake = carbon release"
Allow "renewable resource"
(2)