Burning hydrocarbons
I can write balanced symbol equations for combustion reactions, and describe the difference between complete and incomplete combustion.
Burning hydrocarbons
I can write balanced symbol equations for combustion reactions, and describe the difference between complete and incomplete combustion.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Combustion is the chemical combination of a substance with oxygen, involving the production of heat and light.
- Complete combustion of fuels (like hydrocarbons) involve the production of carbon dioxide and water.
- The chemical test for oxygen is a combustion reaction, involving relighting a glowing splint.
- Incomplete combustion produces carbon particulates (soot) and carbon monoxide due to reduced oxygen levels.
Keywords
Combustion - Combustion is an exothermic reaction where a substance reacts with oxygen.
Complete combustion - The complete combustion of fuels, such as hydrocarbons, occurs when enough oxygen is present to convert all the fuel into carbon dioxide and water.
Hydrocarbons - Hydrocarbons are compounds containing only hydrogen and carbon atoms.
Incomplete combustion - Incomplete combustion is when a substance reacts only partially with oxygen, such as when carbon burns in air, producing carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and soot (unburnt carbon).
Common misconception
All combustion is complete, producing only CO₂ and water.
Highlight the differences between complete and incomplete combustion.
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
molecules made of hydrogen and carbon atoms only
the total mass of reactants equals the total mass of products formed
chemical reactions in which thermal energy is given out
fuels made over millions of years from dead plants and animals