OXYGENATED FUEL Meaning and
Definition
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Oxygenated fuel refers to a type of fuel that contains a higher concentration of oxygen compared to conventional fuels. Oxygenates, such as ethanol or methanol, are added to the fuel mixture to increase the oxygen content. This process is conducted with the aim of enhancing the combustion efficiency and reducing harmful emissions produced by the fuel.
The addition of oxygenates to fuel helps in achieving a more complete and cleaner combustion. When oxygenates are blended with gasoline, they provide additional oxygen to the combustion process, leading to a more efficient fuel burn. This results in improved engine performance, increased power output, and reduced fuel consumption.
Furthermore, oxygenated fuels are recognized for their environmental benefits. By increasing the oxygen content, the combustion process becomes more thorough, minimizing the release of pollutants such as carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These emissions contribute to air pollution and have detrimental effects on human health and the environment. Oxygenated fuels help in reducing these harmful emissions, thereby improving air quality.
Oxygenated fuels are commonly used in areas or during seasons with poor air quality to meet environmental regulations and reduce pollution levels. The use of oxygenated fuels is often mandated by governments as a measure to improve air quality and control emissions from vehicles and machinery.
Etymology of OXYGENATED FUEL
The word "oxygenated fuel" is formed by combining the term "oxygenated" and "fuel".
The term "oxygenated" is derived from the noun "oxygen", which comes from the French word "oxygène" (pronounced /ɔksijɛn/). The French word was coined in the 18th century by French chemist Antoine Lavoisier, from the Greek words "oxy" (meaning "acid") and "gennan" (meaning "to generate" or "to produce").
The term "fuel", on the other hand, comes from the Old English word "fēol", which referred to "combustible material". Over time, it evolved into the word "fuel" during the 14th century.
