Anthracite vs. Bituminous — What's the Difference?

Anthracite, also known as hard coal, and black coal, is a hard, compact variety of coal that has a submetallic luster. It has the highest carbon content, the fewest impurities, and the highest energy density of all types of coal and is the highest ranking of coals.

Like or containing bitumen.

A dense, shiny coal that has a high carbon content and little volatile matter and burns with a clean flame. Also called hard coal.

Of or relating to bituminous coal.

A form of carbonized ancient plants; the hardest and cleanest-burning of all the coals.

Of or pertaining to bitumen.

A dark grey colour.

(uncountable) Bituminous coal.

A hard, compact variety of mineral coal, of high luster, differing from bituminous coal in containing little or no bitumen, in consequence of which it burns with a nearly non luminous flame. The purer specimens consist almost wholly of carbon. Also called glance coal and blind coal.

(countable) A type or grade of bituminous coal.

A hard natural coal that burns slowly and gives intense heat

Having the qualities of bitumen; compounded with bitumen; containing bitumen.

Resembling or containing bitumen;