The correct spelling of the popular term for coal mined from underground mines is "pit coal". The pronunciation of this term is /pɪt koʊl/. The first syllable "pit" is pronounced with the short "i" sound as in "sit", and the second syllable "coal" is pronounced with the long "o" sound as in "goal". This spelling is commonly used in the mining industry to differentiate coal mined from underground mines from other types of coal such as surface-mined coal, also known as "strip coal".
Pit coal, also known as bituminous coal, is a type of coal that is formed from sedimentary rock and is commonly found in underground coal mines. It is a relatively dense and blackish coal, classified as having a higher carbon content and lower moisture content compared to other coal types such as lignite or sub-bituminous coal.
Pit coal is commonly used as a fuel source due to its high energy content and ability to generate heat efficiently when burned. It is primarily composed of carbon, as well as varying amounts of moisture, volatile matter, and impurities such as sulfur and ash. The relatively high carbon content in pit coal makes it an attractive fuel for industrial processes, electricity generation, and heating applications.
Due to its availability and relatively low cost, pit coal has historically been a significant energy source worldwide. However, the combustion of pit coal can release various pollutants into the atmosphere, including greenhouse gases and particulate matter, contributing to environmental concerns such as air pollution and climate change.
In recent years, there has been a global shift towards cleaner and more sustainable energy sources, resulting in a decreased reliance on pit coal for energy generation. Nevertheless, pit coal continues to play a significant role in the energy mix of many countries, particularly those with abundant coal resources.
The term "pit coal" is a combination of the words "pit" and "coal".
The word "pit" can be traced back to the Old English word "pytt", which referred to a hole or cavity in the ground. Over time, it expanded in meaning to also include a mine or excavation site.
"Coal", on the other hand, has its origins in the Old English word "col", derived from the Proto-Germanic "kulą" meaning "charcoal".
When the two words are combined, "pit coal" refers to coal that is extracted from underground mines or excavations. It is important to note that this term is not commonly used in modern English. The more typical term for coal mined from pits is "deep coal" or "pit-mined coal".