International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) Chemistry Practice Exam

What type of gas is often used in bottles for heating and cooking?

1. Propane

2. Butane

3. Refinery gases

4. Methane

The correct answer is: Refinery gases

The type of gas commonly used in bottles for heating and cooking is propane. Propane is a hydrocarbon gas that is a byproduct of natural gas processing and petroleum refining. It is favored in portable applications due to its ability to be stored under pressure in liquid form, making it suitable for use in canisters and bottles. While butane can also be used in portable heating and cooking applications, especially in smaller canisters, propane has a broader range of applications, particularly in outdoor cooking and heating, as it is more effective in colder temperatures. Refinery gases is a broader term that includes various gases produced during the refining process and is not typically used alone for cooking or heating in consumer applications. Methane, while a significant fuel source, is primarily delivered through pipelines and is less commonly associated with bottled gas for portability in cooking or heating. This distinction is crucial in understanding why propane is the most appropriate choice in this context.