Question

On the basis of its carbon content, what are the four broad classifications of coal?

Answer 1

On the basis of its carbon content, the four broad classifications of coal, from highest to lowest quality, are:

1. Anthracite: The best quality hard coal, containing the highest carbon content of 80% to 95%.
2. Bituminous: The most popular industrial coal, containing a carbon content of 60% to 80%.
3. Lignite: A low-grade brown coal that is soft with high moisture, containing a carbon content of 40% to 55%.
4. Peat: The first stage of coal transformation, containing the lowest carbon content of less than 40%.