IB CHEMISTRY

Reactivity 1.3.1

Combustion Reactions

The rapid reaction of a substance with oxygen, releasing heat and light.

Complete Combustion

Occurs when oxygen is abundant.

Hydrocarbons:

Fuel+O2→CO2+H2O\text{Fuel} + O_2 \rightarrow CO_2 + H_2O

Alcohols:

C2H5OH+3O2→2CO2+3H2OC_2H_5OH + 3O_2 \rightarrow 2CO_2 + 3H_2O

Always produces specific oxides (Carbon Dioxide and Water). Highly Exothermic.

Putting it into Practice

Balancing Combustion Equations

Paper 2 Style

Write the balanced equation for the complete combustion of Propane (C3H8C_3H_8).

Practice: Writing Equations

[2 Marks]

Write the balanced equation for the complete combustion of Ethanol (C2H5OHC_2H_5OH).