Key Concepts: Combustion Reactions

Core Definitions

• Combustion: A rapid reaction of a substance with oxygen that produces heat and light (fire).
• Complete Combustion: Hydrocarbon + O₂ → CO₂ + H₂O; occurs with plenty of oxygen.
• Incomplete Combustion: Produces CO (carbon monoxide) or C (soot) instead of CO₂ due to limited oxygen.
• Hydrocarbon: A compound containing only carbon and hydrogen (e.g., CH₄, C₃H₈).
• Fuel: A substance that undergoes combustion to release usable energy.
• Products of Complete Combustion: Always carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O).