Which of the following is/are the characteristic/characteristics of Indian coal? 1. High ash content 2. Low sulphur content 3. Low ash fusion temperature Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

Indian coal is primarily of Gondwana origin, which accounts for over 98% of the country's reserves [3]. A defining characteristic of Indian coal is its high ash content, typically ranging from 20% to 45%, making it relatively inferior compared to global standards [2]. Despite this, it possesses a low sulphur content, generally between 0.5% and 1%, which is considered an eco-friendly trait. While tertiary coals in the Northeast exhibit high sulphur and low ash fusion temperatures, they represent only a tiny fraction of total production [4]. The dominant Gondwana coals are characterized by a high ash fusion temperature, often exceeding 1400°C, which makes them refractory in nature and suitable for specific combustion environments [5]. Therefore, statements 1 and 2 are correct, while statement 3 is incorrect as Indian coal generally has a high, not low, ash fusion temperature.

Sources

1. [3] Geography of India ,Majid Husain, (McGrawHill 9th ed.) > Chapter 8: Energy Resources > Classification > p. 1
2. [1] Geography of India ,Majid Husain, (McGrawHill 9th ed.) > Chapter 8: Energy Resources > Source: Provisional Coal Statistics 2016–17, Coal Controller's Organization, Kolkata. > p. 5
3. [2] Environment and Ecology, Majid Hussain (Access publishing 3rd ed.) > Chapter 9: Distribution of World Natural Resources > 2. High ash content > p. 11
4. [5] https://www.osti.gov/etdeweb/biblio/6307871