Summary
Fuels made from biomass, such as bioethanol from sugar crops and biodiesel from oils.
In depth
First-generation: ethanol from sugarcane or maize and biodiesel from oils; second-generation: cellulosic waste; third: algae. Net greenhouse benefit depends on production, and food versus fuel competition is a concern.
Biofuel crops compete with food crops and need land and water. Cellulosic ethanol requires pretreatment and enzymes to break down lignocellulose. Algae can produce oils but at higher cost.
Key idea: carbon emissions from burning are offset by CO2 taken up by plants, making them potentially carbon neutral.
Frequently asked questions
What is Biofuels?
Fuels made from biomass, such as bioethanol from sugar crops and biodiesel from oils.
Which area of biology covers Biofuels, and how advanced is it?
Biofuels is one of the 56 topics in Biotechnology & Genomics. It is rated Beginner, so it suits learners who are starting out in biology. Related topics in this area include Industrial Fermentation, GMOs, Recombinant DNA.
Can you give an example of Biofuels?
Brazil blends large amounts of sugarcane ethanol into fuel.
What should I learn before Biofuels?
Biofuels is a Beginner topic, so no earlier topic is required. Other Beginner topics in Biotechnology & Genomics that pair well with it include Biotechnology, Genetic Engineering, Selective Breeding.
What topics are related to Biofuels?
The closest topics to Biofuels are Industrial Fermentation, GMOs, Recombinant DNA, Transgenic Organisms. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Biofuels?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Biofuels. To practise the whole of Biotechnology & Genomics, use the Biotechnology & Genomics quiz.
How is Biofuels different from Industrial Fermentation?
Biofuels: Fuels made from biomass, such as bioethanol from sugar crops and biodiesel from oils. Industrial Fermentation: Large bioreactors use microbes to produce antibiotics, enzymes, foods and fuels. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Biofuels step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Industrial Fermentation and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Biotechnology & Genomics quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.