ANS:B - natural gasoline

The condensate obtained from the compression of wet natural gas is termed as natural gasoline. This condensate consists of liquid hydrocarbons such as ethane, propane, butane, and heavier hydrocarbons that are recovered during the processing of natural gas. Natural gasoline refers to a liquid mixture of hydrocarbons that is obtained from the processing of natural gas. Here’s a detailed explanation:

1. Source and Composition:
   • Origin: Natural gasoline is extracted during the processing of natural gas. When natural gas is produced from underground reservoirs, it often contains a mixture of hydrocarbons besides methane (the main component of natural gas). These hydrocarbons include ethane, propane, butane, pentane, and higher molecular weight hydrocarbons.
   • Condensation: During the processing of wet natural gas (natural gas containing these heavier hydrocarbons), these components are separated and condensed into liquid form under controlled conditions. This liquid mixture is what is termed as natural gasoline.
2. Properties:
   • Composition: Natural gasoline typically consists of a mixture of hydrocarbons ranging from C5 (pentane) to C12 or C15 (heavier hydrocarbons). It may contain varying proportions of straight-chain alkanes, branched alkanes, and cycloalkanes.
   • Physical State: It is a liquid at standard temperature and pressure (STP), distinct from the gaseous form of natural gas.
3. Uses:
   • Fuel: Natural gasoline can be used as a fuel similar to gasoline (petrol) derived from crude oil. It can be blended with other fuels or used directly in applications such as motor vehicles, small engines, and heating systems.
   • Chemical Feedstock: It serves as a feedstock for petrochemical processes, where the individual hydrocarbons can be further separated and processed to produce chemicals such as solvents, plastics, and synthetic rubber.
4. Market and Applications:
   • Natural gasoline is valuable in regions where it is extracted alongside natural gas production. It provides an additional source of liquid hydrocarbons that can supplement crude oil-derived gasoline and meet regional energy demands.

In summary, natural gasoline is a liquid hydrocarbon mixture extracted during the processing of wet natural gas. It consists of various hydrocarbons and serves both as a fuel and as a feedstock for chemical industries, contributing to the overall energy and industrial sectors where natural gas is a significant resource.