Question

Write a balanced equation for the combustion reaction that occurs between propane and oxygen. and limiting reactant

Answer 1

Hello!

The chemical reaction that occurs between propane (C₃H₈) and Oxygen (O₂) is the following:

C₃H₈ (g) + 5O₂ (g) → 3CO₂ (g) + 4 H₂O (g) + Δ

To really tell which reactant is the limiting one, you should know the amounts of each one, but generally, O₂ is abundant in the atmosphere and thus, propane would be the limiting reactant, as it is the one that is present in lesser amounts. 

Answer 2

Answer:

$\huge \boxed{\mathrm{a) \ C_3 H_8 +5O_2 \Rightarrow 3CO_2 +4 H_2 O}} \\ \\ \\ \huge \boxed{\mathrm{b) \ Propane}}$

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Explanation:

$\sf C_3 H_8 +O_2 \Rightarrow CO_2 + H_2 O$

Balancing Carbon atoms on the right side,

$\sf C_3 H_8 +O_2 \Rightarrow 3CO_2 + H_2 O$

Balancing Hydrogen atoms on the right side,

$\sf C_3 H_8 +O_2 \Rightarrow 3CO_2 +4 H_2 O$

Balancing Oxygen atoms on the left side,

$\sf C_3 H_8 +5O_2 \Rightarrow 3CO_2 +4 H_2 O$

The limiting reactant is Propane, since Oxygen will not be running out. The amount of Propane is limited.

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