Which compound is primarily used in the production of asphalt?

• A. Benzene
• B. Ethanol
• C. Methane
• D. Bitumen

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the context of the question: Asphalt is a material commonly used for paving roads and roofing, and it is derived from a specific type of hydrocarbon mixture.
2. Identify the compounds listed: Benzene, Ethanol, and Methane are individual chemical compounds, while Bitumen is a complex mixture of hydrocarbons.
3. Recall that Bitumen is the primary substance used in asphalt production because it is a thick, sticky form of petroleum residue that binds aggregates together.
4. Recognize that Benzene is an aromatic hydrocarbon used mainly as a solvent and in chemical synthesis, Ethanol is an alcohol used as a fuel and solvent, and Methane is a simple hydrocarbon gas used as a fuel.
5. Conclude that Bitumen, not the individual compounds listed, is the correct answer because it is the material specifically processed and used to make asphalt.