Burning hydrocarbons
I can write balanced symbol equations for combustion reactions, and describe the difference between complete and incomplete combustion.
- Year 11
- Edexcel
Burning hydrocarbons
I can write balanced symbol equations for combustion reactions, and describe the difference between complete and incomplete combustion.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Combustion is the chemical combination of a substance with oxygen, involving the production of heat and light.
- Complete combustion of fuels (like hydrocarbons) involve the production of carbon dioxide and water.
- The chemical test for oxygen is a combustion reaction, involving relighting a glowing splint.
- Incomplete combustion produces carbon particulates (soot) and carbon monoxide due to reduced oxygen levels.
Keywords
Combustion - Combustion is an exothermic reaction where a substance reacts with oxygen.
Complete combustion - The complete combustion of fuels, such as hydrocarbons, occurs when enough oxygen is present to convert all the fuel into carbon dioxide and water.
Hydrocarbons - Hydrocarbons are compounds containing only hydrogen and carbon atoms.
Incomplete combustion - Incomplete combustion is when a substance reacts only partially with oxygen, such as when carbon burns in air, producing carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and soot (unburnt carbon).
Common misconception
All combustion is complete, producing only CO₂ and water.
Highlight the differences between complete and incomplete combustion.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.When wood burns it reacts with which gas?
Q2.When a fuel containing carbon is burnt which gas will be produced?
Q3.What is a chemical test for carbon dioxide?
Q4.What is the scientific name for burning?
Q5.Which of the following are examples of fossil fuels?
Q6.Match the scientific key terms with the correct definition
