State the standard methods typically used to determine sulphur content in lighter versus heavier petroleum products, identifying the appropriate method for each cut.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Lamp method for light products; bomb method for heavy products

Explanation:


Introduction:
Sulphur determination methods in petroleum vary with boiling range and matrix. Lighter fractions are amenable to older lamp (Wickbold-type) or similar combustion methods, whereas heavier, more viscous materials require closed-vessel (bomb) combustion to ensure complete oxidation for accurate sulphur analysis.

Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Two product classes: lighter vs heavier petroleum products.
  • Methods considered: lamp method and bomb method (closed combustion).


Concept / Approach:
Select the method that ensures complete combustion and reliable capture of sulphur for the given volatility/viscosity range: lamp method for light ends; bomb method for heavy stocks and residues.

Step-by-Step Solution:

1) Lighter products vaporize/burn readily; lamp method suffices.2) Heavier products resist clean open combustion; use bomb method to force complete oxidation.3) Therefore, pair lamp with light products and bomb with heavy products.


Verification / Alternative check:
Analytical standards historically align lamp/open combustion with light distillates and closed-bomb with heavy residues for completeness and safety.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Bomb for light; lamp for heavy: mismatched to volatility/viscosity behavior.Bomb then quartz tube: not the standard pairing for heavy residues here.Quartz tube then lamp: reversed and nonstandard for the given classes.


Common Pitfalls:
Assuming one universal method suits all fractions; matrix drives method choice.

Final Answer:
Lamp method for light products; bomb method for heavy products

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