What is the Difference Between Coal and Coke?

Coal and coke are both fuels, but they have distinct differences. Here are the main differences between them:

1. Carbon content: Coal is mostly carbon, while coke contains mostly water and less than half the carbon content of coal.
2. Production: Coal is a natural occurring mineral, while coke is a fuel obtained from the calcination or dry distillation of mineral coal. Coke is typically derived from heavy-grade coal and other substances, such as oil.
3. Composition: Coal is a black, solid fossil fuel that contains impurities, produces smoke, and produces less heat than coke. Coke, on the other hand, is a grey, hard, and porous coal-based fuel with a high carbon content and few impurities.
4. Energy generation: Coal is commonly used to generate electricity and is a non-renewable resource. Coke is primarily used in iron ore smelting and as a fuel in stoves and forges when air pollution is a concern.

In summary, coal is a natural, carbon-rich fuel that produces smoke and less heat than coke, while coke is a processed fuel derived from coal or other substances, with a higher carbon content and used primarily in iron ore smelting and when air pollution is a concern.

Comparative Table: Coal vs Coke

Here is a table comparing the differences between coal and coke:

In summary, coal is a natural fossil fuel with a higher moisture and sulfur content, which produces less heat and is more polluting when burned. Coke, on the other hand, is an industrial product derived from coal, with fewer impurities and a higher carbon content, producing more heat and being less polluting when burned.