Which among the following are part of the ‘ultimate analysis’ of coal?
(A) Moisture (B) Nitrogen (C) Volatile matter (D) Oxygen (E) Fixed Carbon
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Correct option is C

The ultimate analysis of coal determines the elemental composition of the coal, providing information about its chemical constituents. It focuses on the proportions of carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, sulfur, and oxygen in the coal sample.
1. Moisture (A):
· This is part of proximate analysis, which measures physical properties such as moisture, volatile matter, fixed carbon, and ash.
2. Nitrogen (B):
· Nitrogen content is measured in ultimate analysis, as it is an essential component of the coal's chemical makeup.
3. Volatile Matter (C):
· Like moisture, this is measured in proximate analysis, not ultimate analysis.
4. Oxygen (D):
· Oxygen is part of the elemental composition and is measured in ultimate analysis.
5. Fixed Carbon (E):
· Fixed carbon is determined in proximate analysis, not ultimate analysis.
Thus, the parameters included in the ultimate analysis of coal are Nitrogen (B) and Oxygen (D), making the correct answer (3) (B) and (D) only.
Information Booster: 1. Ultimate Analysis Parameters:
· Determines elemental composition:
· Carbon (C).
· Hydrogen (H).
· Nitrogen (N).
· Sulfur (S).
· Oxygen (O).
2. Proximate Analysis Parameters:
· Focuses on physical properties:
· Moisture.
· Volatile Matter.
· Ash Content.
· Fixed Carbon.
3. Applications of Ultimate Analysis:
· Used in combustion studies.
· Determines the quality of coal.
· Helps in calculating calorific value.
Additional Knowledge: Ultimate Analysis Parameters:
· Nitrogen (B): Indicates nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions potential.
· Oxygen (D): Impacts combustion efficiency and calorific value.
Proximate Analysis Parameters:
· Moisture (A): Affects handling and heating value.
· Volatile Matter (C): Indicates flammability.
· Fixed Carbon (E): Indicates energy content.