Question

Write the two balanced equations, one for the incomplete combustion of methane (to form carbon monoxide and water vapor), and another one for the complete combustion of methane (forming carbon dioxide and water vapor). What are the conditions, at which do you think the incomplete combustion might take place instead of the complete combustion? What is the health risk associated with this process?

Answer 1

Answer:

$2CH_{4(g)} +3O_{2(g)} -->2CO(g)+4H_{2}O_{(g)}\\CH_{4(g)} +2O_{2(g)} -->CO_{2(g)} +2H_{2}O_{(g)}$

Explanation:

$2CH_{4(g)} +3O_{2(g)} -->2CO(g)+4H_{2}O_{(g)}\\CH_{4(g)} +2O_{2(g)} -->CO_{2(g)} +2H_{2}O_{(g)}$

The incomplete combustion of alkanes, and other fuels actually, happens when there is a limited supply of oxygen. Instead of the fuel burning completely to produce carbon dioxide, it produces carbon monoxide instead.

This gas is harmful to jumans because it combines with haemoglobin in lood and takes up space that belongs to oxygen which can lead to suffocation or even death