What is the difference between complete and incomplete combustion of a hydrocarbon?

In complete combustion, there is a sufficient supply of oxygen which is able to react with the burning hydrocarbon allowing the reaction products H2O and CO2 to be formed.
In incomplete combustion there is a lack of oxygen so when heat is applied carbon monoxide is released.
For example: C2H6 + 3 1/2O2 -> 2CO2 + 3H2O C2H6 + 3O2 -> CO + CO2 + 3H2O

EM
Answered by Ellen M. Chemistry tutor

14637 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Why does the first ionisation energy of atoms generally increase across a period?


What is Hess's law?


How do you go about answering titration equations?


What are the redox reactions involving carbonyls?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences