Minnesota Boiler License Practice Exam

What is a good percentage of carbon dioxide when burning oil?

1. 12%

2. 8%

3. 10%

4. 15%

The correct answer is: 12%

When burning oil, a good range for carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions is typically considered to be around 12%. This percentage reflects an efficient combustion process, indicating that the oil is being burned thoroughly and is releasing a significant amount of CO2 as a result of complete combustion. Achieving a CO2 level around this figure suggests that the combustion is optimized, meaning that there is an adequate supply of oxygen and that the fuel is mixed and burned efficiently. Lower percentages could indicate incomplete combustion, resulting in the formation of carbon monoxide (CO) and unburned hydrocarbons, which are undesirable byproducts. Higher percentages might imply that the engine or burner is operating under conditions where there isn’t enough oxygen, which can lead to combustion inefficiencies and increased emissions of pollutants. Understanding CO2 levels is critical for evaluating combustion efficiency and adhering to environmental regulations. Aiming for around 12% is typically accepted as a good practice in the industry to ensure that the combustion process is performing efficiently while keeping emissions within acceptable limits.