Consider the following substances:
I. Ethanol
II. Nitroglycerine
III. Urea
Coal gasification technology can be used in the production of how many of them?
Explanation
Coal gasification technology converts coal into synthesis gas (syngas) — a mixture primarily of carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen (H₂). This syngas serves as a feedstock for producing chemicals and fuels.
Ethanol can be produced from syngas through catalytic conversion or fermentation, making Statement I correct. Urea requires ammonia (NH₃) and carbon dioxide (CO₂) for its synthesis. The hydrogen for ammonia is derived from syngas, so coal gasification indirectly supports urea production. Statement III is therefore also correct.
Nitroglycerine, however, is synthesized through nitration of glycerol using nitric acid and sulphuric acid, with no connection to syngas, making Statement II incorrect.
India is promoting coal gasification under the National Coal Gasification Mission, with projects like the Talcher Fertilizer Plant (Odisha) aimed at producing urea — reducing dependence on imported natural gas.
Thus, coal gasification can be used in the production of Ethanol and Urea.