Coal vs. Coal Tar

Attribute	Coal	Coal Tar
Composition	Primarily carbon, with small amounts of other elements	Mixture of organic compounds derived from coal
Usage	Used as a fuel and in the production of electricity	Used in the production of chemicals, roofing materials, and in medicine
Formation	Formed from the remains of plants buried and subjected to high pressure and heat over millions of years	Formed during the destructive distillation of coal
Color	Black or brown	Black
Physical State	Solid	Viscous liquid

Introduction

Coal and coal tar are two related substances that are derived from coal. While they may sound similar, they have distinct attributes that set them apart. In this article, we will explore the differences between coal and coal tar in terms of their composition, properties, uses, and environmental impact.

Composition

Coal is a naturally occurring combustible sedimentary rock composed primarily of carbon, along with small amounts of other elements such as hydrogen, sulfur, oxygen, and nitrogen. It is formed from the remains of plants that have been subjected to heat and pressure over millions of years. On the other hand, coal tar is a thick, black liquid produced during the distillation of coal to make coke or gas. It is a complex mixture of hundreds of organic compounds, including aromatic hydrocarbons, phenols, and heterocyclic compounds.

Properties

Coal is a solid, black substance with a relatively high carbon content and a low moisture content. It has a high energy density and is used as a fuel for power generation and heating. Coal tar, on the other hand, is a viscous liquid with a strong odor and a dark color. It has a lower energy content compared to coal but is valued for its chemical properties, such as its ability to serve as a raw material for the production of various products, including dyes, drugs, and roofing materials.

Uses

Coal is primarily used as a fuel for power generation, industrial processes, and heating. It is also used in the production of steel and cement. Coal tar, on the other hand, has a wide range of applications in various industries. It is used in the manufacture of asphalt for roads, as a preservative for wood, in the production of chemicals and pharmaceuticals, and in the treatment of skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.

Environmental Impact

Coal mining and combustion have significant environmental impacts, including air and water pollution, habitat destruction, and greenhouse gas emissions. The burning of coal releases carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change and respiratory illnesses. Coal tar production and use also have environmental consequences, such as soil and water contamination, as well as the release of toxic chemicals into the environment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, coal and coal tar are two distinct substances with different compositions, properties, uses, and environmental impacts. While coal is primarily used as a fuel for power generation and heating, coal tar has a wide range of applications in various industries. Both substances have significant environmental consequences, highlighting the need for sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels and their byproducts.