Multiple Choice
When we burn a log in air, which of the following products is most directly released as a result of the combustion of its main organic components?
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3. Chemical Reactions
Combustion Analysis
Multiple Choice
Which of the following is a major end product formed when a fossil fuel undergoes complete combustion?
A
CH_4
B
H_2
C
CO_2
D
CO
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that complete combustion of a fossil fuel means the fuel reacts fully with oxygen, producing the most oxidized forms of the elements present in the fuel.
Recall that fossil fuels like methane (CH_4) contain carbon and hydrogen atoms, which upon complete combustion form carbon dioxide (CO_2) and water (H_2O), respectively.
Write the general equation for complete combustion of a hydrocarbon: \(\text{C}_x\text{H}_y + O_2 \rightarrow CO_2 + H_2O\).
Recognize that carbon monoxide (CO) is typically formed during incomplete combustion when there is insufficient oxygen, so it is not a major product in complete combustion.
Conclude that the major end product containing carbon from complete combustion of fossil fuels is carbon dioxide (CO_2).
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