Which of the following statements about pyrolysis is correct?

Pyrolysis is a thermochemical decomposition process that occurs in the absence of oxygen, typically involving the application of heat. The correct statement highlights that pyrolysis breaks down solid materials using heat, which is fundamental to its operation. During pyrolysis, complex organic materials, such as biomass or plastics, are thermally decomposed, resulting in the production of char (solid), bio-oil (liquid), and syngas (gas). This process does not require moisture, nor is it limited to organic matter; it can also be applied to other carbon-containing materials.

While pyrolysis can produce liquid fuel as one of its byproducts, stating that it produces liquid fuel only is misleading, as the process also yields solid and gaseous products. Therefore, focusing on the aspect of solid material breakdown through the application of heat accurately reflects the essential nature of pyrolysis.