Question

Write a balanced equation for the incomplete combustion of ethane (CH,CH,) to form carbon monoxide as one product.

Answer 1

Answer : The correct balanced equation for incomplete combustion of ethane will be,

$C_2H_6+3O_2\rightarrow CO+CO_2+3H_2O$

Explanation :

As we know that the hydrocarbons can undergo complete or incomplete combustion that depends on the amount of oxygen available.

Complete combustion : It takes place when there is a good supply of oxygen. In this, hydrocarbon react with the oxygen to give carbon dioxide and water as a product.

The general reaction will be :

$\text{Hydrocarbon}+O_2\rightarrow CO_2+H_2O$

Incomplete combustion : It takes place when there is a poor supply of oxygen. In this, hydrocarbon react with the oxygen to give carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and water as a product.

The general reaction will be :

$\text{Hydrocarbon}+O_2\text{(limited)}\rightarrow CO+CO_2+H_2O$

As per question, the incomplete combustion of ethane react with oxygen to gives carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and water as a product.

Therefore, the balanced chemical reaction will be :

$C_2H_6+3O_2\rightarrow CO+CO_2+3H_2O$