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

Which type of fuel is most commonly used in lorries?

1. Fuel oil

2. Gasoline

3. Diesel

4. Refinery gases

The correct answer is: Diesel

Lorries, or trucks, typically use diesel fuel because of its efficiency and energy density when compared to other types of fuel. Diesel engines are designed to operate using diesel fuel, which contains a higher amount of energy per liter than gasoline. This makes diesel engines more fuel-efficient, allowing lorries to carry heavier loads over long distances without needing to refuel frequently. Additionally, diesel fuel has properties that allow for greater torque, which is beneficial for the heavy-duty operations that lorries often undertake. In contrast, gasoline is commonly used in smaller vehicles, such as cars, and is not suitable for the heavy-duty requirements of lorries. Fuel oil is generally used for heating and in some marine applications but is not favored for regular vehicle use. Refinery gases, primarily used in industrial processes, do not provide the necessary energy output for vehicles like lorries. Therefore, diesel stands out as the optimal choice for fuel in this context.