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Question

What is the meaning of combustion?

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Solution

The definition of combustion meansburning, or a chemical change that produces heat and light. An example ofcombustion is an explosion. An example of combustion is oxidation accompanied by heat and light.

A combustion reaction is a type of chemical reaction where a compoundand an oxidant is reacted to produce heat and a newproduct.The general form of a combustion reaction is the reaction between a hydrocarbon and oxygen to yield carbon dioxide and water:

hydrocarbon + O2 → CO2 + H2O

In addition to heat, it's also common (although not necessary) for a combustion reaction to release light and produce a flame.
In order for a combustion reaction to begin, the activation energy for the reaction must be overcome. Often, combustion reactions are started with a match or other flame, which provides heat to initiate the reaction. Once combustion starts, enough heat may be produced to sustain it until it runs out of either fuel or oxygen.


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