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

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $4.99 payment

Prepare for the IGCSE Chemistry Exam with our comprehensive quiz. Practice with multiple choice questions and detailed explanations to boost your understanding. Excel in your examination journey!

Practice this question and more.


Which of the following fractions is most commonly used as fuel for aeroplanes?

  1. Fuel oil

  2. Kerosene

  3. Gasoline

  4. Refinery gases

The correct answer is: Kerosene

Kerosene is the most commonly used fuel for aeroplanes due to its advantageous properties. It has a high energy density, which is essential for aviation since it allows aircraft to carry more energy while maintaining a relatively light weight. Additionally, kerosene has a high flash point, making it safer for storage and handling compared to fuels like gasoline, which is more volatile. Kerosene also burns cleanly, producing fewer emissions, which is beneficial for environmental considerations in aviation. Its availability and cost-effectiveness compared to other fuels further contribute to its widespread usage in both commercial and military aviation. Other fuels, like gasoline, are primarily used in road vehicles and are not suitable for the performance requirements of aviation engines. Fuel oil and refinery gases are also not utilized in aeroplane engines, making kerosene the optimal choice for this application.