ORG CHEM | Combustion Reactions

Combustion

a substance combines with oxygen to produce heat and light, usually resulting in a flame

Complete Combustion | Definition

alkanes react with plenty of oxygen gas to produce carbon dioxide and water

Complete Combustion | Formula

C_nH_2n+2 + (1.5n+0.5)O₂ → nCO₂ + (n+1)H₂O

Incomplete Combustion | Definition

alkanes react with an insufficient amount of oxygen, resulting in the formation of carbon monoxide or elemental carbon (soot) and water

Incomplete Combustion | Formula for Carbon Monoxide

C_nH_2n+2 + (n+0.5)O₂ → nCO + (n+1)H₂O

Incomplete Combustion | Formula for Carbon

C_nH_2n+2 + (0.5n+0.5)O₂ → nC + (n+1)H₂O

Carbon Dioxide and Climate Change

Despite being the cleaner byproduct of combustion, it still traps heat in the Earth’s atmosphere as a greenhouse gas, contributing to global warming

Carbon Monoxide and Health Risks

This colorless and odorless gas is toxic to humans and animals, as it prevents oxygen form binding with hemoglobin in the blood. This leads to severe health issues and death, and pollution of this gas in urban areas leads to respiratory diseases and other health problems.

Soot and Air Quality

This particulate contributes to smog and moor air quality, especially in densely populated and industrial areas. It can penetrate the lungs and bloodstream, leading to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular issues, and other health problems. They also contribute to reduced visibility and damage to natural and man-made structures.

Acid Rain Formation

combustion of hydrocarbons often release sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, which react with water vapor to form the acids that precipitate in acid rain. This rain harms forest and aquatic ecosystems and erodes buildings and monuments.