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

Answered by Ellen M. Chemistry tutor

14126 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Why do elements give off coloured light when heated?


Describe how a buffer solution based on hydrochloric acid can act as a buffer. (5)


There are two stable isotopes of Bromine, Br-79, Br-81. If a sample of Br2 is fed into a mass spectrometer, how many peaks would be observed in the spectrum?


Describe, in three steps, how you would synthesise phenylethylamine (C6H5CH2CH2NH2) from methylbenzene, giving reagents and conditions for each step. For each step, state the type of reaction that occurs.


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