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
Related Chemistry A Level answers
All answers ▸In terms of structure and bonding explain why the boiling point of magnesium is much higher than that of bromine?
2.11g of MgCl2 is added to 30cm3 of water. Find the concentration of chloride ions in the solution.
The lattice enthalpies of calcium oxide and magnesium oxide are different. Comment on this difference.
Write a balanced half equation for the oxidation of Mn 2+ to MnO4 -