Carbon Dioxide Detection

I have to do a scientific experiment in which I have to prove that alternative fuels (biofuels, bioethanol) produce less carbon dioxide than regular motor fuel. What can I use to determine the amount of carbon dioxide is released? I tried to use tubes to detect carbon dioxide, but they have no work.

There is a chemical reaction involving carbon dioxide and [lime water Ca (OH) 2] which is a reliable test for carbon dioxide. You do not have to do a little mass of precipitated CaCO3 and the stoichiometry of use to determine the amount of CO2, but it is doable. It could be more boring than you hope, however.

CO2 + Ca (OH) 2 -> CaCO3 (ppt) + H2O

Because the molar ratio of CaCO3 CO2 is the same, you only need to find the molecular weight of each to determine the amount of CO2 that the engine produces.

Quantity of CO2 (g) = mass of CaCO3 (in grams) x (22/37).

In addition, if you want the volume of CO2 to liters, multiply by the mass of CaCO3 (22.4/37) instead, if at STP.

the combustion of fuel. exhaust bubble in water.

start by measuring the temperature and pH.

The CO2 will be absorbed by the exhaust gas in water, forming a weak acid, and affect the pH of the water. heat is also absorbed in the water which affect the temperature. you can measure the pH and the final temperature of the water.

You now have a measure of CO2 production per unit of energy than the fuel provides.