4.1.10

Combustion of Hydrocarbons

Test yourself

Burning Hydrocarbons

The equations for the combustion (burning) of hydrocarbons depend on the amount of oxygen that is available.

Illustrative background for Burning with plenty of oxygenIllustrative background for Burning with plenty of oxygen ?? "content

Burning with plenty of oxygen

  • The combustion (burning) of hydrocarbons when there is a good air supply involve:
    • Energy release.
    • The oxidation of carbon and hydrogen to create carbon dioxide and water.
Illustrative background for Burning with a lack of oxygenIllustrative background for Burning with a lack of oxygen ?? "content

Burning with a lack of oxygen

  • If alkanes are burned without enough oxygen, then carbon monoxide can be created:
    • 2C + O2 → 2CO
  • Carbon monoxide is a gas with the following properties:
    • Colourless
    • Toxic
    • Odourless

Jump to other topics

1States of Matter

2Atoms, Elements & Compounds

3Stoichometry

4Electrochemistry

5Chemical Energetics

6Chemical Reactions

7Acids, Bases & Salts

8The Periodic Table

9Metals

10Chemistry of the Environment

11Organic Chemistry

11.1Formulae, Functional Groups & Terminology

11.2Naming Organic Compounds

11.3Fuels

11.4Alkanes

11.5Alkenes

11.6Alcohols

11.7Carboxylic Acids

11.8Polymers

12Experimental Techniques & Chemical Analysis

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