4.12: Know the Possible Products of Complete and Incomplete Combustion of Hydrocarbons with Oxygen and Air

COMBUSTION: Chemical reaction that involves burning

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COMPLETE COMBUSTION: Chemical reaction that involves burning with an unlimited supply of Oxygen so elements in fuel fully react with Oxygen

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COMPLETE COMBUSTION OF HYDROCARBONS:

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During the complete combustion of Hydrocarbons, Carbon Dioxide and Water will be produced:

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• Carbon will oxidise to form Carbon Dioxide
• Hydrogen will oxidise to Water

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EQUATION:

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Hydrocarbon   +   Oxygen   →   Carbon Dioxide   +   Water

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*INCOMPLETE COMBUSTION: Chemical reaction that involves burning with a limited supply of Oxygen so elements in fuel does not fully react with Oxygen

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INCOMPLETE COMBUSTION OF HYDROCARBONS:

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During the incomplete combustion of Hydrocarbons, Carbon Monoxide and Water will be produced:

• Carbon is released as soot
• Carbon Monoxide is a poisonous Gas that reduces the capacity of red blood cells (haemoglobin) to carry Oxygen

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EQUATION:

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Hydrocarbon   +   Oxygen   →   Carbon Monoxide   +   Water