Fuel Utilization — Do Liquid Fuels Have Lower Efficiency Than Solid Fuels? Evaluate the statement: “Liquid fuels have lower efficiency than solid fuels.” Select True or False based on general engineering practice and thermodynamic performance.

Introduction:
Fuel “efficiency” in engineering typically refers to how effectively a fuel can be converted into useful work or heat in a specific device. This depends on calorific value, controllability of combustion, mixing, ash and moisture content, and equipment design. The statement claims liquid fuels are less efficient than solid fuels, which generally contradicts field experience.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Comparison across commonly used fuels: solid (coal, biomass) vs. liquid (diesel, furnace oil, gasoline, kerosene).
• Similar-scale, well-designed burners and engines.
• Efficiency considered on practical device performance, not just theoretical maxima.

Concept / Approach:
Liquid fuels typically have higher mass-based calorific value, negligible ash, better atomization, precise metering, and cleaner combustion. These traits often yield higher combustion efficiency, easier control of excess air, and higher overall thermal efficiency in engines and industrial burners compared to many solid-fuel systems, which suffer from heterogeneity, ash, clinker formation, and slower mixing kinetics.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Assess energy content: liquids ~43–46 MJ/kg; many solids (wood, low-grade coal) are lower.Assess combustion control: liquid fuel injectors/atomizers enable efficient mixing and stable flames.Assess losses: lower unburnt residues and reduced particulate carryover raise overall efficiency.Therefore, the generalized claim that liquid fuels have lower efficiency is false.

Verification / Alternative check:
Power plants and engines often achieve higher efficiencies with liquid or gaseous fuels due to better combustion control and lower auxiliary losses, supporting the conclusion.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Choosing “True” ignores common industrial and automotive data showing equal or superior efficiencies with liquids compared to many solids.

Common Pitfalls:
Equating specific applications where coal is economical with superior “efficiency”; conflating device efficiency with fuel price or availability.

Final Answer:
False