Question

How to determine the molecules formed during a combustion reaction?

Answer 1

Combustion Reaction

1. A combustion reaction is a type of chemical reaction in which a compound and an oxidant are reacted to form heat and a new product.
2. In order to determine the molecule of Carbon dioxide (${\mathrm{CO}}_2$) write the balanced equation.
3. Read the coefficients of the balanced equation in terms of molecules of each sides.
4. Find the limiting reactant using the coefficients of the balanced equation.
5. The limiting reactant is completely used up in the reaction to form the product so use the coefficient ratio of the limiting reactant and product to determine the molecules of product formed.
6. Example: Combustion of Butane: $\underset{\mathrm{Butane}}{2{\mathrm{C}}_4{\mathrm{H}}_{10}\left(\mathrm{g}\right)}+\underset{Oxygen}{13O_2\left(g\right)}\to \underset{\mathrm{Carbon}\mathrm{Dioxide}}{8{\mathrm{CO}}_2\left(\mathrm{g}\right)}+\underset{\mathrm{Water}}{10{\mathrm{H}}_2\mathrm{O}\left(\mathrm{g}\right)}+\mathrm{Heat}$

Therefore, by finding the limiting reactant we can determine the molecules formed during a combustion reaction.