SHOULD ETHANOL BE REQUIRED IN GASOLINE Research Paper - 2

SHOULD ETHANOL BE REQUIRED IN GASOLINE - Research Paper Example However, many others argue that ethanol is neither economical nor environmental friendly and it cannot cater the energy needs of America even if the whole lands in America are cultivated with ethanol producing plants. This paper tries to find answers to the question; SHOULD ETHANOL BE REQUIRED IN GASOLINE? Korzeniewski, (2009) argued that ethanol is cheap compared to gasoline and it helps mixers generate higher octane ratings (Korzeniewski, 2009). Oil prices are growing day by day and more over, the oil sources are exhausting every day. Some experts pointed out that the available oil sources may last for only 30-40 years more if the consumptions continue at the present rate. Under such circumstances, it is necessary for us to find an alternate energy source and many people believe that biofuel may replace oil fuels in future. However, Taylor and Van Doren, (2007) have questioned above argument. In their opinion, the perception about ethanol as an economical fuel is only a myth. They have quoted a 2005 report issued by the Agriculture Department, and argued that corn ethanol costs an average of $2.53 to produce, or several times what it costs to produce a gallon of gasoline (Taylor and Van Doren, 2007). In other words, ethanol use cannot be encouraged in America without giving subsidie s. It is difficult for the government to spend huge amounts as subsidies for encouraging ethanol use, especially in the present economic crisis situations. Another major question raised by the critics of ethanol is the feasibility of ethanol fuel in old cars. These people argued that ethanol may create major problems in old car engines and the engine could be damaged if ethanol fuels used for a prolonged period. In their opinion, new engines and new cars compatible with ethanol is required to encourage the ethanol use in America. Korzeniewski, (2009) has pointed out that â€Å"todays cars and trucks are all fully