Combustion reactions are vital chemical processes where fuel and oxygen produce energy, heat, and light. They can be complete or incomplete, with the former yielding carbon dioxide and water, and the latter producing harmful byproducts like carbon monoxide and soot. The environmental impact of these reactions is significant, contributing to global warming, air pollution, and acid rain. Technologies to mitigate these effects include flue gas desulphurisation and catalytic converters, while renewable energy sources offer sustainable alternatives.
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Combustion reactions are chemical processes that release heat and light
Complete Combustion
Complete combustion occurs when a fuel reacts with ample oxygen, resulting in the full conversion of carbon and hydrogen to carbon dioxide and water
Incomplete Combustion
Incomplete combustion happens with insufficient oxygen, leading to the formation of toxic byproducts and less energy release
To write a chemical equation for a combustion reaction, one must balance the reactants and products to adhere to the law of conservation of mass
Combustion reactions are a cornerstone of human technology, providing the energy necessary for transportation, heating, and electricity generation
The harnessing of combustion reactions has been critical to many aspects of modern civilization for over a million years
Combustion reactions have a wide range of applications, from simple cooking to complex industrial systems
The emission of carbon dioxide from combustion reactions contributes to global warming and climate change
Incomplete Combustion
Incomplete combustion releases carbon monoxide and particulate matter, which are hazardous to health and contribute to air pollution and global dimming
Sulphur and Nitrogen Compounds
The burning of fuels containing sulphur and nitrogen compounds releases sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, which can lead to acid rain and the formation of photochemical smog
Flue Gas Desulphurisation Systems
Flue gas desulphurisation systems are used to remove sulphur dioxide from the emissions of fossil fuel combustion
Catalytic Converters
Catalytic converters in vehicles reduce emissions of carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and unburned hydrocarbons
Sustainable Alternatives
The advancement of renewable energy sources and the development of carbon-neutral fuels are critical in reducing the carbon footprint of energy consumption
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Combustion reaction equation
Fuel + O2 -> CO2 + H2O + Energy. Represents the chemical change during combustion.
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Energy forms released in combustion
Heat and light. Combustion liberates thermal energy and often emits photons.
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Applications of combustion
Transportation, heating, electricity. Combustion is used in engines, furnaces, and power plants.
