What type of coal is referred to as anthracite?

Anthracite is often referred to as hard coal because it is the highest rank of coal in terms of carbon content and heat value. It has a carbon content of about 86% to 97%, which makes it more efficient as a fuel source compared to other types of coal. Anthracite burns cleaner and hotter than other types, producing less smoke and fewer pollutants, which is why it is sometimes used for heating in residential and commercial buildings.

In contrast, soft coal typically refers to lignite or bituminous coal, which have lower carbon contents and higher moisture levels, yielding less heat when burned. Lignite is the lowest grade of coal, known for its brownish color and high moisture content, making it less efficient than anthracite. Bituminous coal falls between lignite and anthracite in carbon content and heat production, but it does not reach the high performance levels of anthracite. Thus, identifying anthracite as hard coal highlights its superior qualities as a fuel source.