Fuel properties — typical boiling range of Diesel fuel What is the approximate boiling point range for common Diesel fuel fractions used in compression ignition engines?

Introduction / Context:
Diesel fuel distillation characteristics influence volatility, ignition delay, cold start behaviour, and emissions. The boiling range reflects the mix of hydrocarbons chosen during refinery fractionation.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Conventional road Diesel (not kerosene or heavy fuel oil).
• Atmospheric distillation followed by blending to meet standards.
• Boiling range asked in degrees Celsius.

Concept / Approach:
Diesel is heavier than gasoline with higher final boiling point. Typical initial boiling point is around 180°C and final boiling point near 360°C. This supports compression ignition by achieving suitable cetane and volatility characteristics without excessive light ends.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Recall that gasoline boils roughly 30°C to 220°C.Diesel is heavier; use 180°C to 360°C as canonical range.Select the matching option.

Verification / Alternative check:
Fuel standards specify distillation curves (e.g., at 10%, 50%, 90% recovered) within this overall envelope for automotive Diesel grades.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• 70–100°C, 100–120°C, 120–180°C: far too light; these relate to gasoline/naptha cuts.

Common Pitfalls:
Equating flash point with boiling range; Diesel has a much higher flash point than gasoline and a heavier distillation profile.

Final Answer:
180°C to 360 °C