Prepare for the Plant Operation Test with our comprehensive quiz, featuring flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question includes hints and explanations to aid your understanding. Maximize your study time and ensure you're exam ready!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.


What type of coal is referred to as hard coal?

  1. Bituminous coal

  2. Lignite coal

  3. Anthracite coal

  4. Peat coal

The correct answer is: Anthracite coal

The term "hard coal" specifically refers to anthracite coal, which is known for its high carbon content, minimal moisture, and low volatile matter. This results in a dense and hard material that burns very cleanly and with a high heat output. Anthracite coal is often used for residential heating and in industrial processes that require a high-quality fuel source. Its hardness distinguishes it from other types of coal, making it desirable for applications where high energy efficiency and low emissions are important. In contrast, the other types of coal mentioned, such as bituminous coal, lignite coal, and peat coal, have different characteristics. Bituminous coal is softer and contains more volatile components, while lignite is even softer and has a higher moisture content. Peat, on the other hand, is an earlier stage in the coal formation process and is not classified as coal in the traditional sense. Understanding these distinctions highlights why anthracite is termed "hard coal."