Question 2
Name the petroleum product used for surfacing of roads.
Bitumen is a petroleum product that is used in place of coal-tar for metalling or surfacing the roads.
Key Concepts Covered
This question tests your understanding of the following concepts from the chapter Coal and Petroleum: Question, Petroleum, Product, Surfacing, Roads, Coal and Petroleum. These are fundamental topics in Science that students are expected to master as part of the CBSE Class 8 curriculum.
A thorough understanding of these concepts will help you answer similar questions confidently in your CBSE examinations. These topics are frequently tested in both objective and subjective sections of Science papers. We recommend revising the relevant section of your textbook alongside practising these solved examples to build a strong foundation.
How to Approach This Question
Read the question carefully and identify what is being asked. Break down complex questions into smaller parts. Use the terminology and concepts discussed in this chapter. Structure your answer logically — begin with a definition or key statement, then provide supporting details. Review your answer to ensure it addresses all parts of the question completely.
Key Points to Remember
- Read the question carefully and identify all parts before answering.
- Use the terminology specific to this subject and chapter.
- Review the textbook content for this chapter before attempting questions.
- Practice writing concise, well-structured answers within time limits.
Practice more questions from Coal and Petroleum — Science, Class 8 CBSE
Chapter Overview: Coal and Petroleum
This chapter covers the formation, properties, and uses of fossil fuels (coal, petroleum, natural gas). Coal formation through carbonisation and its three products (coke, coal tar, coal gas) are important. Petroleum refining by fractional distillation into seven major fractions is a frequently tested topic. The chapter emphasises conservation of these exhaustible resources.
Board Exam Weightage: 4-6 marks | Difficulty: Moderate
Key Formulas & Concepts
| Concept | Details |
|---|---|
| Carbonisation | Dead vegetation converted to coal under high temperature and pressure over millions of years |
| Fractional Distillation | Separation of crude petroleum into fractions based on different boiling points |
| CNG | Compressed Natural Gas, mainly methane (CH4); used as cleaner vehicle fuel |
| Petrochemicals | Chemicals derived from petroleum; used to make plastics, synthetic fibres, detergents |
Must-Know Concepts
- Coal, petroleum, and natural gas are fossil fuels formed from dead organisms over millions of years
- Fossil fuels are exhaustible/non-renewable resources
- Coke is used in steel manufacturing; coal tar yields dyes, paints, drugs; coal gas is used as fuel
- Petroleum fractions from top to bottom: LPG, petrol, kerosene, diesel, lubricating oil, paraffin wax, bitumen
- CNG is the cleanest fossil fuel (produces less pollutants)
- PCRA promotes petroleum conservation in India
Products of Coal
| Product | Nature | Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Coke | Tough, porous, black solid (almost pure carbon) | Steel making, metal extraction |
| Coal Tar | Thick black liquid | Dyes, drugs, explosives, perfumes, paints, road surface |
| Coal Gas | Gas | Fuel in industries; earlier used for street lighting |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Thinking fossil fuels are renewable (they take millions of years to form)
- Confusing the order of petroleum fractions in the distillation column
- Mixing up coal tar (liquid) with coal gas (gaseous)
- Thinking CNG and LPG are the same fuel
Scoring Tips
- Use a mnemonic for petroleum fractions: Lovely People Keep Dogs, Lovely Pets Behave
- Draw and label the fractional distillation column from memory
- Learn 5 everyday ways to conserve fossil fuels
- Remember: petroleum is called black gold due to its high value
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many marks does this chapter carry in the exam?
A: Approximately 4-6 marks in the annual exam.
Q: What question types are commonly asked?
A: MCQs (1 mark), Very Short Answer (2 marks), Short Answer (3 marks), and Long Answer / Diagram (5 marks).
Q: Is this chapter important for competitive exams?
A: Yes, concepts from this chapter appear in NTSE, Olympiad, and other science competitions.