Poultry Judging Practice Test

Biogas may be produced from manure in _____ conditions and has an energy value of _____ BTU per cubic foot compared to methane, which has 1,000 BTU per cubic foot.

1. Aerobic, 400

2. Aerobic, 800

3. Anaerobic, 600

4. Anaerobic, 900

The correct answer is: Anaerobic, 600

Biogas is produced in anaerobic conditions, which are environments lacking oxygen. This process occurs in environments such as manure pits or landfills, where microorganisms break down organic material in the absence of oxygen, resulting in the production of biogas primarily composed of methane and carbon dioxide. The energy value of biogas is generally lower than that of pure methane. In this case, biogas has an energy value of approximately 600 BTU per cubic foot. This value is significant when comparing it to methane, which has an energy value of about 1,000 BTU per cubic foot. Understanding that anaerobic digestion is the process involved and knowing the specific energy value of biogas relative to methane helps in comprehending the potential of biogas as a renewable energy source derived from animal waste.