Known commonly as ‘ghaslet” in India, kerosene is widely used for cooking and heating purposes. It also finds its uses as a solvent for paints and other chemicals in India. In rural India as well as urban parts of the country, kerosene is widely used in cooking stoves as a substitute to cooking gas. Furthermore, kerosene is also a vital component of Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF).
Kerosene is a type of liquid fuel that is used for various purposes, including heating, lighting, and powering engines. It is a highly refined form of petroleum that is derived from crude oil through a process called fractional distillation. Kerosene has a clear or slightly yellow color, and it has a distinctive odor.
One of the main uses of kerosene is as a heating fuel, especially in areas where natural gas or electricity is not available. Kerosene heaters are portable and easy to use, making them a popular choice for emergency heating during power outages or in remote locations
Kerosene is also used as a lighting fuel, particularly in lanterns and lamps. The fuel is burned inside the device, producing a bright and steady flame. Kerosene lamps were widely used before the advent of electric lighting, and they are still used in some parts of the world where electricity is not available or reliable.
In addition to heating and lighting, kerosene is also used as a fuel for engines, such as in jet engines and some types of aircraft. Kerosene is a popular choice for aviation because it has a high energy density and burns cleanly, producing less smoke and soot than other types of fuels. However, it’s important to note that kerosene is a flammable and potentially dangerous substance, so it should be handled and stored carefully. It’s also important to use kerosene only in devices that are designed to burn this type of fuel, to prevent accidents or damage to the equipment.