What is the difference between Bitumen and Tar?
There are some differences between Bitumen and Tar. They include the following.
Composition:
Bitumen is primarily composed of aromatic hydrocarbons associated with oil deposits. Tar, on the other hand, can form in association with oil or it can be formed from wood.
Characteristics:
Bitumen can occur in solid form or as a dark viscous liquid whereas Tar is chemically distinct and occurs primarily as a viscous liquid.
Production:
Bitumen occurs naturally and can be prospected from the ground whereas tar is usually produced through distillation.
| Characteristics | Bitumen | Tar |
| Source | Derived only from sources associated with coal and oil. | Can be derived from petroleum or coal and wood. |
| Occurrence | Occurs in solid form and as a viscous liquid. | Usually occurs only as a viscous liquid. |
| Nature | Can be naturally occuring | Usually needs to be distilled. |
