combustion of hydrocarbons

what is combustion

Short-chain hydrocarbons like methane, ethane, and propane.

What is the general word equation for the complete combustion of hydrocarbons?

Hydrocarbon + Oxygen → Carbon dioxide + Water

What are the products of complete combustion of a hydrocarbon?

Carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O).

What is required for complete combustion?

A plentiful supply of oxygen.

Why does complete combustion release more energy than incomplete combustion?

All the carbon in the hydrocarbon is fully oxidized.

What is the general word equation for incomplete combustion?

Hydrocarbon + Oxygen → Carbon monoxide + Water (+ sometimes carbon/soot).

What are the possible products of incomplete combustion?

Carbon monoxide (CO), water (H₂O), and sometimes carbon (soot).

Why does incomplete combustion occur?

When there is an insufficient supply of oxygen.

Why is carbon monoxide dangerous?

t is a poisonous gas that binds to hemoglobin in the blood, preventing oxygen transport.

What is the environmental impact of soot (carbon) from incomplete combustion?

It contributes to air pollution and can cause respiratory problems.

: What type of flame indicates complete combustion?

A clean, blue flame.

What type of flame indicates incomplete combustion?

: A yellow, smoky flame.

What is the balanced chemical equation for the complete combustion of methane (CH₄)?

CH₄ + 2O₂ → CO₂ + 2H₂O

What is the balanced chemical equation for the incomplete combustion of methane (CH₄)?

CH₄ + O₂ → CO + 2H₂O (or CH₄ + O₂ → C + 2H₂O)

What is the main energy transfer that occurs during the combustion of hydrocarbons?

Chemical energy in the fuel is converted to heat and light energy.

How does burning hydrocarbons contribute to global warming?

It releases carbon dioxide (CO₂), a greenhouse gas that traps heat in the atmosphere.

How does incomplete combustion contribute to global dimming?

Soot particles released into the atmosphere block sunlight.

Why is water produced during the combustion of hydrocarbons?

The hydrogen atoms in the hydrocarbon react with oxygen to form water (H₂O).

Why do hydrocarbons make good fuels?

They release a lot of energy during combustion and are readily available.

What is the difference between the energy output of short-chain and long-chain hydrocarbons during combustion?

Longer-chain hydrocarbons release more energy because they have more bonds to break and form.

What happens to the carbon atoms in hydrocarbons during combustion?

They are oxidized to form carbon dioxide (CO₂) or carbon monoxide (CO) in incomplete combustion.

What is the effect of sulfur impurities in fuels during combustion?

Sulfur reacts with oxygen to form sulfur dioxide (SO₂), which causes acid rain.

What type of combustion is safer for human health and the environment?

Complete combustion, as it avoids the production of harmful carbon monoxide and soot.

What is the greenhouse effect of carbon dioxide?

It traps heat in the Earth’s atmosphere, leading to global warming.

How can the effects of incomplete combustion be reduced?

By ensuring there is enough oxygen during the combustion process.