Ethanol is an alternative energy source. It is an alcohol made by fermenting corn or other similar biomass material.
Advantages of ethanol fuel:
a) Ethanol reduces the country’s dependence on imported oil, lowering the trade deficit and ensuring a dependable source of fuel should foreign supplies be interrupted.
b) Farmers see an increased demand for grain which helps to stabilize prices.
c) The quality of the environment improves. Carbon monoxide emissions are reduced, and lead and other carcinogens (cancer causing agents) are removed from gasoline.
d) Car owners benefit from increased octane in gasoline, which reduces engine “knock” or “pinging.” Ethanolblended fuels also absorb moisture and clean the fuel system.
Drawbacks of ethanol fuel:
a) It has about 33% per litre lower energy density than gasoline, leading to a lower vehicle driving range.
b) It tends to increase aldehydes emissions.
c) It absorbs water and may cause phase separation in gasoline mixtures if water comes into the distribution, storage or vehicle fuel system.
d) Higher prices due to high agriculture input cost.
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