Question

Is coal a hydrocarbon?

Answer 1

Hint:The answer to this can be either yes or no, depending upon the perspective scientists hold. Coal is actually the hydrogen deficient hydrocarbon in general.

Complete step-by-step answer:Let us know more about the given statement;
Hydrocarbon-
It is an organic compound having hydrogen and carbon as the primary and essential ingredients. In short, we can say that the hydrocarbon; as the name suggests, consist entirely of hydrogen and carbon.
The main resources of hydrocarbons are fossil fuels found on the earth crust. Coal is the most important fossil fuel but this comprises 80% of carbon and very less amount of hydrogen on board.
In general, we can say that coal is the hydrogen deficient hydrocarbon with a H:C ratio of 0.8; which has become the reason for the confusion. Majestically, we can call coal as a hydrocarbon due to its other important properties but some articles do not consider the same.

Note:Do note that the confusion is still present and is to be diagnosed soon by some geologists and scientists. But, for better understanding on the primary level we can perfectly call coal as a hydrocarbon.