Combustion and Oxidation Summary

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to combustion, oxidation, and environmental issues from burning fossil fuels.

Combustion

An exothermic reaction where a hydrocarbon reacts with oxygen to produce water and carbon dioxide.

Hydrocarbon

A compound made only of carbon and hydrogen; many fuels are hydrocarbons.

Oxidation

A chemical reaction where a substance combines with oxygen, resulting in the formation of oxides.

Phlogiston

A theory that suggested a substance released during combustion, now disproven by the oxygen theory.

Fire triangle

A model showing the three elements required for a fire: heat, fuel, and oxygen.

Complete combustion

A reaction where a fuel reacts completely with oxygen, producing carbon dioxide and water.

Incomplete combustion

A reaction where a fuel only partially reacts with oxygen, producing carbon dioxide, water, and possibly carbon monoxide and soot.

Acid rain

Rain made more acidic by dissolved gases like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides.

Greenhouse effect

The process by which greenhouse gases in the Earth's atmosphere trap heat, keeping the planet warm.

Greenhouse gases

Gases that contribute to the greenhouse effect, such as carbon dioxide and methane.

What is combustion?

Combustion is a chemical reaction that typically occurs between a fuel and an oxidant, producing heat and light. It can be complete or incomplete.

What are the products of complete combustion?

The products of complete combustion are typically carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O), along with the release of energy.

What happens during incomplete combustion?

During incomplete combustion, not enough oxygen is available to fully convert the fuel, leading to the production of carbon monoxide (CO) and/or soot as byproducts along with water.

List the conditions necessary for combustion to occur.

1. A fuel source
2. An oxidant, usually oxygen
3. An ignition source to initiate the reaction.

What is the role of the ignition source in combustion?

The ignition source provides the initial energy needed to start the combustion reaction, overcoming the activation energy barrier.

Explain the difference between lean and rich combustion.

Lean combustion occurs when there is a higher amount of oxygen than needed to fully combust the fuel, while rich combustion has more fuel than can be burned with the available oxygen.

What is the significance of the stoichiometric ratio in combustion?

The stoichiometric ratio is the ideal balance of fuel and oxidant for complete combustion. It ensures that all fuel is burned and minimizes harmful emissions like CO.

What are some common applications of combustion?

Common applications of combustion include power generation in engines, heating in furnaces, and energy production in power plants.

Define the term 'flame.'

A flame is the visible, gaseous part of a fire, which emits light and heat due to the combustion of gases.

What are the environmental impacts of combustion?

Combustion can lead to air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and other environmental issues associated with byproducts like CO₂ and particulate matter.

How can incomplete combustion affect human health?

Incomplete combustion produces carbon monoxide, a toxic gas that can affect oxygen delivery in the body, leading to headaches, dizziness, or even death in high concentrations