Combustion of Hydrocarbon Fuels

Overview

• Combustion is the process of burning a substance in the presence of oxygen.
• Hydrocarbons are compounds made only of hydrogen and carbon.
• Combustion can be complete or incomplete, depending on the oxygen supply.

Complete Combustion

• Occurs in a plentiful supply of air.
• Hydrocarbons react with oxygen to produce carbon dioxide and water vapor.
• It is an exothermic reaction, releasing energy.
• Equation:
  • Hydrocarbon + Oxygen → Carbon Dioxide + Water
• Produces carbon dioxide, which is an atmospheric pollutant.

Incomplete Combustion

• Occurs when there is a limited supply of air or oxygen.
• Produces carbon monoxide, carbon, and water.
• Releases less energy than complete combustion.
• Equation for propane:
  • Propane (C₃H₈) + Limited Oxygen → Carbon + Carbon Monoxide + Water

Effects and Examples

• Soot: Fine black particles produced by incomplete combustion.
  • Causes breathing problems, blackens buildings, and can block equipment.
• Carbon Monoxide: A poisonous gas causing health issues.
  • Binds with hemoglobin in red blood cells, reducing oxygen transport.
  • Causes drowsiness, unconsciousness, or death.

Environmental Impact

• Complete combustion produces carbon dioxide, contributing to atmospheric pollution.
• Incomplete combustion results in carbon monoxide and soot, harmful to health and the environment.

Related Topics

• Atmospheric pollutants and their effects on health and the environment.
• Greenhouse effect and climate change due to increased greenhouse gases.

Additional Resources

• Explore related chemistry topics and exam questions on BBC Bitesize for further study.