Combustion of Hydrocarbons
Chemistry: Cambridge International GCSE Supplement, topic 4.1.10
Burning Hydrocarbons
The equations for the combustion (burning) of hydrocarbons depend on the amount of oxygen that is available.
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.
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
Test yourself on Combustion of Hydrocarbons
When a hydrocarbon burns completely in a good supply of oxygen, it...
What doesn't occur when hydrocarbons burn in a good air supply?
Name 3 properties of carbon monoxide
Whether burning hydrocarbons produces carbon dioxide or carbon monoxide...
What results from burning hydrocarbons in a plentiful supply of oxygen?