Metalling of roads
Explanation
Bitumen is a non-volatile, extremely viscous, and black semi-solid by-product obtained during the fractional distillation of crude petroleum. It represents the heaviest fraction of petroleum refining.
Detailed Analysis:
- Manufacture of steel is incorrect: The manufacture of steel primarily utilizes Coke, which is a derivative of coal (not petroleum), acting as a reducing agent in the blast furnace.
- Metalling of roads is correct: Bitumen is the standard material used for the metalling of roads (road surfacing). It acts as a binder in asphalt concrete. It has largely replaced coal tar for this purpose due to its superior binding properties and durability. It is also used in paints and waterproofing materials.
- Production of candles is incorrect: The production of candles utilizes Paraffin Wax, which is a white, waxy solid obtained from a different fraction of petroleum distillation.
- Fuel for jet aircraft is incorrect: Fuel for jet aircraft is derived from Kerosene (Aviation Turbine Fuel), which is a lighter liquid fraction of petroleum compared to bitumen.
Key Takeaway:
Bitumen is a petroleum product primarily used for road surfacing and waterproofing, distinct from coal tar, which is a by-product of coal processing.