Diesel fuel prices are rising—chemistry can help explain why
Diesel prices have almost doubled over the past year, spelling trouble for farmers, truckers and the entire U.S. economy
Diesel fuel prices in the U.S. have more than doubled over the past year, causing concern for farmers, truckers, and the overall economy. Unlike gasoline prices, diesel prices are rising significantly. A barrel of oil yields less diesel fuel compared to gasoline due to the refining process, making diesel more expensive. Diesel is made from heavier crude oil containing metals and sulfur, which require more intensive refining to remove contaminants.
This process, often likened to using a sledgehammer, breaks down molecules, reducing the amount of diesel fuel produced from a barrel of oil. Diesel prices have nearly doubled compared to the spring, while gasoline prices have increased by about 40% over the same period. The high price of diesel is due to its intensive refining process and global economic factors, such as supply disruptions from the Iran-Ukraine conflicts.
Biodiesel, made from vegetable sources, has a minimal impact on overall diesel pricing. If the conflicts persist, diesel prices are expected to remain high for an extended period, potentially above $6 per gallon.
Written by urgent.news from Scientific American's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
